Artwork was another important consideration. The Pottery Barn Blue Seat Oats artwork coordinates beautifully with the room, both in its complementary color palette and its generous scale. We wanted to maximize the size of the artwork flanking the bay window to create a striking visual moment rather than allowing the large wall to feel underutilized. A new carpet helped anchor the room and added comfort, while a modern ceiling fan brought function and a fresh contemporary note overhead. Finally, the new Alta window shades in Pacific Gray Marble add sophistication while continuing the clean, fresh aesthetic our clients were hoping to achieve.

The back of this 1920s brick and siding Cape Cod gets a compact addition to create a new Family room, open Kitchen, Covered Entry, and Master Bedroom Suite above. European-styling of the interior was a consideration throughout the design process, as well as with the materials and finishes. The project includes all cabinetry, built-ins, shelving and trim work (even down to the towel bars!) custom made on site by the home owner. Photography by Kmiecik Imagery

This Minneapolis garage, named after the Owner’s beloved dog Harry, is an example of attention to detail, both in design and execution. The client set out to create a new garage to match his historic home. He wanted a garage that could do both: store his car and host late afternoon soirees. The bar faces the home to create an inviting backyard courtyard. The bar’s custom rolling screen rolls up to reveal a bar countertop, which creates a welcoming spot for friends and family to gather. Careful consideration was made to match the historic home’s turn-of-century brick color and the brick coursing (pattern). Unfortunately, the closest color matched brick was the wrong size. Thus, we worked with talented craftspeople at Welch Foresman to cut each brick in half, which turned the large utility bricks into slimmer Roman bricks. We drew the specific brick coursing to ensure that the structure would match the historic proportions of the home.

Scottish architect Charles R. Macintosh left an abundance of work and creative effort to inspire generations. This kitchen is one of those inspirations. Designed and created for a client's row house in the D.C. area by Jaeger & Ernst custom cabinetmakers the attempt was to open and lift the space, provide a truly efficient kitchen and to acknowledge just a little of the architecture of the home. Too many kitchen designers design without consideration of the total feel of a home's architectural elements. Subconsciously the trim, casings, window style, flooring, door design, newel post, exterior features, fireplaces, etc act to provide us with a sense of the home's purpose and intent and quality. Originally in the architect's or builder's mind there was purpose and intent. Yes, they did not have the wherewithal of modern conveniences but rest assured many had a strong sense of proportion, intent and purposefulness when the home was imagined and built. We do ourselves and our homes a disservice when we act without regard for the home's legacy. Restoration is a glad burden; restoration is not a thing to be gotten beyond, rather it's an exciting path of growth and appreciation. Taken, skill and creativity are required, the skill sets of Jaeger & Ernst cabinetmakers: 434-973-7018

This Minneapolis garage, named after the Owner’s beloved dog Harry, is an example of attention to detail, both in design and execution. The client set out to create a new garage to match his historic home. He wanted a garage that could do both: store his car and host late afternoon soirees. The bar faces the home to create an inviting backyard courtyard. The bar’s custom rolling screen rolls up to reveal a bar countertop, which creates a welcoming spot for friends and family to gather. Careful consideration was made to match the historic home’s turn-of-century brick color and the brick coursing (pattern). Unfortunately, the closest color matched brick was the wrong size. Thus, we worked with talented craftspeople at Welch Foresman to cut each brick in half, which turned the large utility bricks into slimmer Roman bricks. We drew the specific brick coursing to ensure that the structure would match the historic proportions of the home.

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

Set within a beautiful city neighborhood off West River Road, this 1940’s cottage was completely updated, remodeled and added to, resulting in a “new house” for the enjoyment of its long-term owners, who plans to remain in the home indefinitely. Each room in the house was restored and refreshed and new spaces were added including kitchen, family room, mudroom, guest bedroom and studio. A new detached garage was sited to provide a screen from the alley and to create a courtyard for a more private backyard. Careful consideration was given to the streetscape and neighboring houses on both the front and back elevations to assure that massing, new materials and exterior details complemented the existing house, street and neighborhood. Finally a new covered porch was added to protect from the elements and present a more welcoming entry from the street. Construction by Flynn Construction, Inc. Landscape Architecture by Tupper and Associates Interior Design by InUnison Design Photographs by Troy Thies

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

Creating a large, modern extension to blend seamlessly with the original style of this 100-year-old Victorian home was the perfect challenge for our team. The remodel of this kitchen was a dream for these culinary enthusiasts, proving that they are epicures of not just food, but design as well. A far cry from the former century-old galley, this renovated kitchen and dining space now provide the functionality and storage of a professional kitchen without the cold, sterile steel look. Hidden inside the walk-in pantry you’ll find stellar blue cabinetry created with function and design in mind. The custom millwork cleverly conceals two sets of double-door fridges. From the fridge, our clients can find all the space required for realizing their favourite recipes while working at their immense kitchen island, customized especially for their needs. It’s hard to believe this century-old home could be transformed so spectacularly, but thoughtful consideration of architectural and historical features helped to realize our clients’ vision. Old-school engineering work was brought into the 21st century while ensuring that the beautiful brickwork and original Victorian style were honoured. The custom crown moulding above the large contemporary windows provides that old-world feel and plenty of light for this family of four to gather – whether they’re grabbing breakfast or prepping an amuse-bouche.

Creating a large, modern extension to blend seamlessly with the original style of this 100-year-old Victorian home was the perfect challenge for our team. The remodel of this kitchen was a dream for these culinary enthusiasts, proving that they are epicures of not just food, but design as well. A far cry from the former century-old galley, this renovated kitchen and dining space now provide the functionality and storage of a professional kitchen without the cold, sterile steel look. Hidden inside the walk-in pantry you’ll find stellar blue cabinetry created with function and design in mind. The custom millwork cleverly conceals two sets of double-door fridges. From the fridge, our clients can find all the space required for realizing their favourite recipes while working at their immense kitchen island, customized especially for their needs. It’s hard to believe this century-old home could be transformed so spectacularly, but thoughtful consideration of architectural and historical features helped to realize our clients’ vision. Old-school engineering work was brought into the 21st century while ensuring that the beautiful brickwork and original Victorian style were honoured. The custom crown moulding above the large contemporary windows provides that old-world feel and plenty of light for this family of four to gather – whether they’re grabbing breakfast or prepping an amuse-bouche.

Creating a large, modern extension to blend seamlessly with the original style of this 100-year-old Victorian home was the perfect challenge for our team. The remodel of this kitchen was a dream for these culinary enthusiasts, proving that they are epicures of not just food, but design as well. A far cry from the former century-old galley, this renovated kitchen and dining space now provide the functionality and storage of a professional kitchen without the cold, sterile steel look. Hidden inside the walk-in pantry you’ll find stellar blue cabinetry created with function and design in mind. The custom millwork cleverly conceals two sets of double-door fridges. From the fridge, our clients can find all the space required for realizing their favourite recipes while working at their immense kitchen island, customized especially for their needs. It’s hard to believe this century-old home could be transformed so spectacularly, but thoughtful consideration of architectural and historical features helped to realize our clients’ vision. Old-school engineering work was brought into the 21st century while ensuring that the beautiful brickwork and original Victorian style were honoured. The custom crown moulding above the large contemporary windows provides that old-world feel and plenty of light for this family of four to gather – whether they’re grabbing breakfast or prepping an amuse-bouche.

Location: Port Townsend, Washington. Photography by Dale Lang
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional l-shaped bamboo floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Seattle with a double-bowl sink, shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, solid surface countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

For modern, mid century home office furniture, the Copeland-Catalina collection is best in its class. High end, designer desks, file cabinets and credenzas. Handcrafted in Vermont, this furniture is made to order, in natural solid black walnut or maple wood. Catalina home office furniture combines clean contemporary lines with organic and geometric wood forms. This solid hardwood, handmade office furniture is suggestive of the works of America’s Mid-Century Modern designers with it's retro-modern shapes and sensibilities. Check out the Top 10 Reasons to Buy Copeland Catalina Furniture Here at Vermont Woods Studios. Then Go Natural - Go Green with Copeland!

Fusion Cork flooring is clean, durable as stone, and warm to walk on, and is fabulous for people suffering from allergies and asthma

Set within a beautiful city neighborhood off West River Road, this 1940’s cottage was completely updated, remodeled and added to, resulting in a “new house” for the enjoyment of its long-term owners, who plans to remain in the home indefinitely. Each room in the house was restored and refreshed and new spaces were added including kitchen, family room, mudroom, guest bedroom and studio. A new detached garage was sited to provide a screen from the alley and to create a courtyard for a more private backyard. Careful consideration was given to the streetscape and neighboring houses on both the front and back elevations to assure that massing, new materials and exterior details complemented the existing house, street and neighborhood. Finally a new covered porch was added to protect from the elements and present a more welcoming entry from the street. Construction by Flynn Construction, Inc. Landscape Architecture by Tupper and Associates Interior Design by InUnison Design Photographs by Troy Thies

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   One of my favorite things to work on is older homes with a bit of history because I find it an interesting challenge to marry the historical architectural features of a home with modern design elements that work well for my client’s current lifestyle. This home was particularly fun because it was the second kitchen we had done for this family and was quite a departure from the style of the first kitchen. The before shot of the kitchen shows a view from the family room. See the dropped ceiling? We were curious, was this just part of the design or was the dropped ceiling there to hide mechanicals? Well we soon found out that it was mostly decorative (yay!), and with the exception of a little bit of work to some plumbing from an upstairs bathroom and rerouting of the ventilation system within the original floor joists, we were in the clear, phew! The shot of the completed kitchen from roughly the same vantage point shows how much taller the ceilings are. It makes a huge difference in the feel of the space. Dark and gloomy turned fresh and light! Another serious consideration was what do we do with the skinny transom window above the refrigerator. After much back and forth, we decided to eliminate it and do some open shelving instead. This ended up being one of the nicest areas in the room. I am calling it the “fun zone” because it houses all the barware, wine cubbies and a bar fridge — the perfect little buffet spot for entertaining. It is flanked on either side by pull out pantries that I’m sure will get a ton of use. Since the neighboring room has literally three walls of almost full height windows, the kitchen gets plenty of light. The gold shelving brackets, large pendant fixtures over the island and the tile mural behind the range all pay subtle homage to the home’s prairie style architecture and bring a bit of sparkle to the room. Even though the room is quite large, the work triangle is very tight with the large Subzero fridge, sink and range all nearby for easy maneuvering during meal prep. There is seating for four at the island, and work aisles are generous. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: LOMA Studios For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Upgrades to this contemporary west coast home bring simplicity, light and improved movement. Stairs were reconfigured and opened with glass, wood and steel – giving visibility from the entrance through to the living spaces, where windows openings were enlarged to capture the ocean and islands beyond. Custom millwork placed in the kitchen increased function and aesthetic, and created a workspace situated towards the expansive west coast view. All finishes were upgraded and spaces opened considerably. Situated just outside a major city, this home now conveys the sense that it is a place of retreat, perfect for an owner who aspires to study art. KBC Developments www.kbcdevelopments.com Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Chris Nolasco
Example of a large transitional master white tile and subway tile marble floor and multicolored floor claw-foot bathtub design in Los Angeles with distressed cabinets, a two-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, marble countertops, multicolored countertops and recessed-panel cabinets

Designed by: Studio Revolution Photography by: Thomas Kuoh
Example of a southwest master bedroom design in San Francisco