Lisa Konz Photography This was such a fun project working with these clients who wanted to take an old school, traditional lake house and update it. We moved the kitchen from the previous location to the breakfast area to create a more open space floor plan. We also added ship lap strategically to some feature walls and columns. The color palette we went with was navy, black, tan and cream. The decorative and central feature of the kitchen tile and family room rug really drove the direction of this project. With plenty of light once we moved the kitchen and white walls, we were able to go with dramatic black cabinets. The solid brass pulls added a little drama, but the light reclaimed open shelves and cross detail on the island kept it from getting too fussy and clean white Quartz countertops keep the kitchen from feeling too dark. There previously wasn't a fireplace so added one for cozy winter lake days with a herringbone tile surround and reclaimed beam mantle. To ensure this family friendly lake house can withstand the traffic, we added sunbrella slipcovers to all the upholstery in the family room. The back screened porch overlooks the lake and dock and is ready for an abundance of extended family and friends to enjoy this beautiful updated and classic lake home.

Inspiration for a small timeless u-shaped ceramic tile open concept kitchen remodel in San Luis Obispo with a drop-in sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, white appliances and a peninsula

My client has primarily white dishes, so I added some pattern/color to the back of the glass cabinets to make the dishware stand out. Photo: Sweet Magnolia Photo & Design

The interior of the home went from Colonial to Classic Lodge without changing the footprint of the home. Columns were removed, fur downs removed that defined space, fireplace relocated, kitchen layout and direction changed, breakfast room and sitting room flip flopped, study reduced in size, entry to master bedroom changed, master suite completely re-arranged and enlarged, custom hand railing designed to open up stairwell, hardwood added to stairs, solid knotty alder 8’ doors added, knotty alder crown moldings added, reclaimed beamed ceiling grid, tongue and groove ceiling in kitchen, knotty alder cabinetry, leather finish to granite, seeded glass insets, custom door to panty to showcase an antique stained glass window from childhood church, custom doors and handles made for study entry, shredded straw added to wall texture, custom glazing done to all walls, wood floor remnants created an antique quilt pattern for the back wall of the powder bath, custom wall treatment created by designer, and a mixture of new and antique furnishing were added, all to create a warm, yet lived in feeling for this special family. A new central stone wall reversed with an over scaled fireplace and reclaimed flooring from the East became the anchor for this level of the home. Removing all the “divisions” of space and using a unified surface made unused rooms, part of the daily living for this family. The desire to entertain large group in a unified space, yet still feel like you are in a cozy environment was the driving force for removing divisions of space. Photos by Randy Colwell

Scott Hargis Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized country living room remodel in San Francisco

Large transitional enclosed medium tone wood floor living room photo in Other with gray walls, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

A small picnic shelter is perfect for enjoying the outdoors while at the lake. This shelter has a rustic design to coordinate with the main house and contains a wood burning fireplace for colder nights.

The 800 square-foot guest cottage is located on the footprint of a slightly smaller original cottage that was built three generations ago. With a failing structural system, the existing cottage had a very low sloping roof, did not provide for a lot of natural light and was not energy efficient. Utilizing high performing windows, doors and insulation, a total transformation of the structure occurred. A combination of clapboard and shingle siding, with standout touches of modern elegance, welcomes guests to their cozy retreat. The cottage consists of the main living area, a small galley style kitchen, master bedroom, bathroom and sleeping loft above. The loft construction was a timber frame system utilizing recycled timbers from the Balsams Resort in northern New Hampshire. The stones for the front steps and hearth of the fireplace came from the existing cottage’s granite chimney. Stylistically, the design is a mix of both a “Cottage” style of architecture with some clean and simple “Tech” style features, such as the air-craft cable and metal railing system. The color red was used as a highlight feature, accentuated on the shed dormer window exterior frames, the vintage looking range, the sliding doors and other interior elements. Photographer: John Hession

I started by redesigning their fireplace with a stacked stone surround, travertine herringbone hearth and I had my handyman make me a rustic wood mantel. Above, we mounted the TV, but it was quite unsightly, so we hung a mirrored cabinet over it to hide it. Next up were the rustic wood clad walls. I wanted to bring some warmth and texture to the space by adding a wood element. I had the same handyman install this labor of love. A new chandelier replaced the old ceiling fan, new custom drapes were installed, the chest of drawers was repainted and all furnishings and decor are new with the exception of the coffee table and a side table. The result is another simple, rustic and cozy space to relax with family and friends.

photography by Joe Dodd
Mid-sized trendy backyard concrete paver patio photo in San Francisco with a fire pit

Rock outcroppings make a striking background for new lounge areas in this compact Los Angeles hillside garden. Working with the attributes of the site, we added native plants to drape over the stone, and converted hollowed stone planters into a firepit and water feature. New built-in seating and a cozy hammock complete the relaxing space, and dramatic lighting makes it come alive at night. Photo by Martin Cox Photography.

Let there be light. There will be in this sunny style designed to capture amazing views as well as every ray of sunlight throughout the day. Architectural accents of the past give this modern barn-inspired design a historical look and importance. Custom details enhance both the exterior and interior, giving this home real curb appeal. Decorative brackets and large windows surround the main entrance, welcoming friends and family to the handsome board and batten exterior, which also features a solid stone foundation, varying symmetrical roof lines with interesting pitches, trusses, and a charming cupola over the garage. Once inside, an open floor plan provides both elegance and ease. A central foyer leads into the 2,700-square-foot main floor and directly into a roomy 18 by 19-foot living room with a natural fireplace and soaring ceiling heights open to the second floor where abundant large windows bring the outdoors in. Beyond is an approximately 200 square foot screened porch that looks out over the verdant backyard. To the left is the dining room and open-plan family-style kitchen, which, at 16 by 14-feet, has space to accommodate both everyday family and special occasion gatherings. Abundant counter space, a central island and nearby pantry make it as convenient as it is attractive. Also on this side of the floor plan is the first-floor laundry and a roomy mudroom sure to help you keep your family organized. The plan’s right side includes more private spaces, including a large 12 by 17-foot master bedroom suite with natural fireplace, master bath, sitting area and walk-in closet, and private study/office with a large file room. The 1,100-square foot second level includes two spacious family bedrooms and a cozy 10 by 18-foot loft/sitting area. More fun awaits in the 1,600-square-foot lower level, with an 8 by 12-foot exercise room, a hearth room with fireplace, a billiards and refreshment space and a large home theater.

Photos by Kaity Custom picnic table design by: Marty Rhein, CKD, CBD - crafted by Edge
Mid-sized arts and crafts stone screened-in back porch photo in Grand Rapids with a roof extension

Bring cozy elegance into your living room with the Avery Reclining Sofa Collection. Upholstered in a rich, mocha brown suede-finished polyester, this reclining couch offers both manual and power options for customizable relaxation. Designed with padded arms, pad-over-chaise seats, and channel-tufted backs, the Avery delivers exceptional comfort from every angle. Its solid pine frame and individually-wrapped coil support system ensure lasting durability—perfect for movie nights, naps, and everything in between.

This grand entryway showcases the perfect blend of craftsmanship and mountain lodge character. The hand-built staircase features dark-stained timber framing paired with industrial-style cable railing, creating a striking contrast against the warm pine walls. Cozy and inviting, the sitting nook includes rustic furnishings, wildlife-inspired décor, and soft lighting that sets the tone for the rest of the home. Every detail—from the solid wood doors to the exposed beams—embodies timeless quality and a welcoming, handcrafted appeal.

Let there be light. There will be in this sunny style designed to capture amazing views as well as every ray of sunlight throughout the day. Architectural accents of the past give this modern barn-inspired design a historical look and importance. Custom details enhance both the exterior and interior, giving this home real curb appeal. Decorative brackets and large windows surround the main entrance, welcoming friends and family to the handsome board and batten exterior, which also features a solid stone foundation, varying symmetrical roof lines with interesting pitches, trusses, and a charming cupola over the garage. Once inside, an open floor plan provides both elegance and ease. A central foyer leads into the 2,700-square-foot main floor and directly into a roomy 18 by 19-foot living room with a natural fireplace and soaring ceiling heights open to the second floor where abundant large windows bring the outdoors in. Beyond is an approximately 200 square foot screened porch that looks out over the verdant backyard. To the left is the dining room and open-plan family-style kitchen, which, at 16 by 14-feet, has space to accommodate both everyday family and special occasion gatherings. Abundant counter space, a central island and nearby pantry make it as convenient as it is attractive. Also on this side of the floor plan is the first-floor laundry and a roomy mudroom sure to help you keep your family organized. The plan’s right side includes more private spaces, including a large 12 by 17-foot master bedroom suite with natural fireplace, master bath, sitting area and walk-in closet, and private study/office with a large file room. The 1,100-square foot second level includes two spacious family bedrooms and a cozy 10 by 18-foot loft/sitting area. More fun awaits in the 1,600-square-foot lower level, with an 8 by 12-foot exercise room, a hearth room with fireplace, a billiards and refreshment space and a large home theater.

This dining room project embraces a warm, natural aesthetic inspired by bohemian and organic design principles. The space features a solid wood dining table surrounded by woven rattan chairs, creating an inviting and relaxed atmosphere. Oversized fringe pendant lights anchor the room with a bold yet cozy statement, complementing the earthy color palette of soft neutrals and warm browns. Handmade pottery, simple glassware, and natural fiber accents decorate the space, reinforcing a connection to artisanal craftsmanship. A lush potted plant and open shelving with curated decor pieces add a vibrant, lived-in feel, while the patterned floor tiles introduce a playful geometric element. Balancing minimalism with character, this dining room is designed to be a serene gathering place for family and friends, where comfort and style meet effortlessly.

Open living area space connecting to dining area.
Inspiration for a small industrial ceramic tile and white floor enclosed dining room remodel in Other with white walls and no fireplace

After living in their home for over 18 years, the homeowners loved the architectural potential of their home, and needed a refresh to meet their current family needs. They now had two kids in college and wanted to focus on entertaining. The key projects in the home included a new dramatic living room, the white kitchen renovation, a new personalized man-cave for the husband, and a large walk-in closet with custom height drawer storage for the wife. Throughout the rooms in this renovation, we added pops of gold and glamour, yet kept the home cozy and livable. We utilized cohesive design elements throughout the home including ship-lap texture and detailing throughout the kitchen, new mudroom, wok kitchen, living room, and master bedroom. Project Highlights: White Kitchen Renovation In this white kitchen renovation, we removed the old wooden shaker-style kitchen cabinetry and replaced them with all new white and grey cabinets, and white marble counter tops. Expertly hidden behind some of these cabinets is the family’s new walk-in pantry. The original space had a small, awkward-shaped kitchen island that was so small it was barely functional or convenient for more than one person to sit at. We gave the homeowners a much larger kitchen island, with a beveled edge, that now has more than enough space for eating, socializing, or doing work. With a large overhang counter top on one side, there is now room for several backless bar stools tucked under the island. You’ll also notice glitters of gold inside the two over-sized lighting fixtures suspended over the island. We created the homeowners a small wok kitchen just off of their new white kitchen renovation. In the main kitchen, we added a ceramic flat cook top and subtle white exhaust hood with an elegant rose-gold trim. Behind it, a white/grey mosaic back splash acts as a wall accent to provide some dimension to the otherwise solid white space. Surrounding the range hood are two large wall cabinets with clear doors to provide extra storage without adding bulk to the newly opened room. The adjacent dining room was also updated to include a long, contemporary dining table with comfortable seating for eight (ten if you want to get cozy). We replaced the low-hanging run-of-the-mill chandelier with a higher, more modern style made of gold and glass. Behind it all is a new dark grey accent wall with a paneled design to add dimension and depth to the new brighter room. Brightening the Living Room In addition to the white kitchen renovations, the living room got a much needed update too. The original high ceilings were so high they were unusable for decor or artwork, and a fireplace was mostly unused. We installed a large dark grey paneled accent wall (to match the new accent wall in the new formal dining room nearby), to make better use of the space in a stylish, artful way. In the middle of the room, a stunning minimalist hanging chandelier adds a pop of gold and elegance to the new space. If you’re looking to change up the colour scheme in your home, or make a transformation from dated to like the white kitchen renovation we did in this Surrey home, let us take a look. Schedule a complimentary consultation with the My House Design/Build Team today.