Designing and building a kitchen addition is a complex process that involves multiple steps and considerations. Here is a general outline to help you get started on your kitchen addition project: Define Your Goals and Budget: • Determine the purpose of the kitchen addition. Is it for more cooking space, a dining area, or a combination of both? • Establish a realistic budget for your project. Consider all costs, including construction, permits, materials, and furnishings. Hire a Design Professional: • Seek the services of a design build company who specializes in kitchen additions. • Discuss your vision, needs, and budget with the design professional to create a design concept. Site Evaluation: • Assess the existing space and structural condition of your home to ensure it can support the addition. • Consider factors like zoning regulations, setbacks, and building codes. Design Development: • Collaborate with your design professional to refine the concept, including the layout, size, and architectural style. • Choose materials, finishes, and fixtures that fit your design and budget. Obtain Permits: • Consult with your local design build contractor to determine the necessary permits and approvals. • Prepare and submit all required documents, including architectural drawings and engineering plans. Create Construction Documents: • Work with your design build professional to develop detailed construction drawings and specifications. • These documents will serve as a guide for contractors during construction. Hire a design build contractor: • Check references, credentials, and licenses before selecting a contractor. • Sign a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, timeline, and payment schedule. Construction Phase: • Demolition: If needed, remove any existing structures or walls. • Foundation: Construct the foundation for the addition. • Framing: Build the structural framework of the addition. • Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC: Install or update utilities as required. • Insulation: Ensure proper insulation for energy efficiency. • Drywall and Finish Work: Complete the walls and ceilings. • Flooring and Cabinetry: Install flooring and kitchen cabinets. • Appliances and Fixtures: Add appliances, plumbing fixtures, and lighting. • Paint and Finish: Apply paint and finishes to achieve the desired look. • Final Inspection: Schedule inspections to ensure compliance with building codes. Final Inspections and Approvals: • Arrange for final inspections to ensure the addition meets all safety and code requirements. • Obtain any necessary certificates of occupancy or compliance. Move In and Enjoy: • Once all inspections and approvals are received, you can move into your new kitchen addition and start enjoying it. Remember that every kitchen addition project is unique, so adapt this outline to your specific needs and circumstances. Consulting with professionals and obtaining the required permits and inspections is crucial to a successful and safe project.

Ocean Blue Pools LLC is widely recognized for extravagant swimming pool construction and unmatched customer service. Our specialties include custom designed swimming pools, spas, beautiful rock and stone water features and astounding outdoor kitchens and living spaces. The designing process incorporates classic principles, proportioned balance and expert design in accordance with your topography and space. We strive to make your outdoor living space as user friendly as it is beautiful. With profound focus on our client’s needs, we will design around your unique lifestyle and taste and create a space that is inviting, comfortable, safe, and engages the senses. Your swimming pool, which becomes the focal point, is just one component of the backyard. The landscape, lighting, water features, fire pit or outdoor kitchen will define your pool and evoke emotion. Our design team will offer several feature choices to create the most exciting and relaxing outdoor environment using the harmony of these elements. The design process begins with a consultation to understand your lifestyle and vision for your new outdoor living space. We will inquire about your usage plans and the vision you would like to achieve. We take into consideration, location of views, site conditions and accessibility. We will examine your homes existing architectural design to ensure continuity and flow from your home into to your new outdoor living space. Our design team and graphic artists will then transform your vision into conceptual drawings and renderings. A visual presentation will also be prepared to convey the look and feel of the proposed project. Under the design process, materials will be recommended which may include: pavers, travertine, glass tile, stone veneer, precast concrete, landscape and lighting. The final design drawings will provide an accurate representation of your new outdoor living space. Once the design process is complete, we will construct your project to the exact vision of the original design concept. We will maintain relentless attention to detail with our latest innovations and technology. All projects are managed from decades of experience by our trained superintendent who will manage timeframes, quality, and most of all, the client’s expectations. Our goal is to exceed your expectations. Randall Schmidt / Design and Construction

Paul Bardagjy
Example of a trendy entryway design in Austin

Cute but congested colonial needed some relief. The elimination of the wall between the kitchen and dining room opened up the space. Alterations to the living room and dining room, plus careful considerations to traffic flow welcomed the family on the first floor. The large island gained more gathering space for family and friends. The new mudroom carefully carved out from the existing farmers porch creates order in the entryway. The addition of new windows and doors adds natural light and creates more comfort in this old New England 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.

Outdoor Splendor This new outdoor living area complements the beautifully landscaped yard while creating an entimate atmosphere for relaxation, socializing, or a comfortable getaway to watch a movie or exciting sporting event. The clients utilized the Houzz site and found our design build team while looking for ideas for an outdoor living area. Leuders limestone, perma-columns, stained pine ceiling, and salt finished and scored pattern concrete were utilized to create a well detailed addition to this home. The existing roof produced a particular challenge but every consideration was taken to ensure the addition blended with the existing house to appear as though it was original. Structural connections were utilized due to the recent concerns of high winds in the Texas climate. Interior Designer Lila Parker ASID worked with the owners to coordinate colors, finishes and furnishings which enriched this outdoor atmosphere. Bryce Moore, Rocket Boy Photos

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

It’s a 1928 Tudor home that has tons of vintage charm. The client is looking for an expanded Kitchen with Pantry, a dedicated Mudroom, and an additional Master Bedroom with bathroom. As well as updates throughout the home. They wanted something bright and inviting with a contemporary vintage vibe. The main objective for this 650 SF addition, was to expand the home with an addition that is homogeneous. The beloved style shall remain as true to form as possible with a seamless extension to accommodate additional program needs. The objective was to preserve as much of the existing materials removed during demolition. For the front facade, we mixed the salvaged brick from the demolition with new bricks having the same character. Allowing the addition to seamlessly ties into the existing home. We applied the same approach for the slate roof which also ties seamlessly with the existing. Careful consideration is paid to scale and materials; dormers mimic and complement the existing house and provide opportunities for second floor living under the eaves. The goal was to create rooms that feel spacious and livable yet in scale with the existing rooms. The addition maximizes the use of space and takes into consideration carefully designed details.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

DULL BEDROOM TRANSFORMED TO THE ULTIMATE IN BAR/WINE RETREAT! This unused bedroom was positioned off a hall close to the breakfast area. KB Design enclosed an existing hall, converted a closet space and removed a Hollywood bath vanity area to reposition entry and create a cozy bar as you walk into this fabulous wine room. Beams were added along with brick accents and custom designed storage to meet every need for the client's extensive collection of wines, champagnes and cigars. Special consideration was given to the arched entrance and the lighting throughout to create the ultimate atmosphere for this wine room!

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

In collaboration with the client’s architect, AR Design the layout of the kitchen was already in place. However, upon meeting the client it was clear she wanted a ‘wow’ island, symmetry in design and plenty of functional storage. As well as a contemporary, family-friendly space it was also important the space that still respected the heritage of the house. The original walls of the property had many angled walls and featured some tight spaces, so careful consideration of SieMatic's cabinetry choices was given to ensure maximum functionality in those spaces. After much consideration, The Myers Touch specified SieMatic’s SC10 Cabinetry in a Provence Oak Laminate finish which was placed in a framed-style at the rear wall. The same cabinetry was specified for under the island to create contrast with the new and original material features in the space. In order for the family to keep the kitchen uncluttered, careful planning of internal storage systems was considered in the form of using SieMatic’s internal Drawer boxes and their MultiMatic internal storage system which were used to store smaller items such as spices and sauces, as well whilst providing space for slide-out drawers and storage baskets. To ensure an elegant yet ‘wow’ factor central island, The Myers Touch combined contrasting textures by using 30mm Silestone Eternal Calacatta natural stone, polished worktops with ‘waterfall island’ edges and a Corian solid surface back panel. The distinctive geometric patterned Corian panel in Cameo White looks particularly spectacular at night when the owner's turn on the architectural-toned lighting under the island. Appliances chosen for the island included a sophisticated Elica Illusion extractor hood so it could be totally integrated in the new architectural space without visual distraction, a Siemens iQ500 Induction Hob with touch-slide control and a Caple Under-counter Wine cabinet. To maximise every inch of the new space, and to ensure the owners had a place for everything, The Myers Touch also used additional cabinetry and storage options in the island such as extra deep drawers to store saucepans, cutlery, and everyday crockery. The eye-catching Antique-bronze mirrored splashback not only helps to provide the illusion of extra space, but reinforces family ‘togetherness’ as it reflects and links the rear of the kitchen ‘snug’ area where family members can sit and relax or work when not in the main kitchen extension area. The original toned brickwork and 18th Century steel windows in the original part of the extension also helps to tell the story about the older part of the house which now juxtaposes to the new, contemporary kitchen living extension. A handy door was also included in the extension which leads to the garage on the main road for family convenience and over-flow storage. Photography by Paul Craig (Reproduction of image by request only - joy@bakerpr.co.uk)

In collaboration with the client’s architect, AR Design the layout of the kitchen was already in place. However, upon meeting the client it was clear she wanted a ‘wow’ island, symmetry in design and plenty of functional storage. As well as a contemporary, family-friendly space it was also important the space that still respected the heritage of the house. The original walls of the property had many angled walls and featured some tight spaces, so careful consideration of SieMatic's cabinetry choices was given to ensure maximum functionality in those spaces. After much consideration, The Myers Touch specified SieMatic’s SC10 Cabinetry in a Provence Oak Laminate finish which was placed in a framed-style at the rear wall. The same cabinetry was specified for under the island to create contrast with the new and original material features in the space. In order for the family to keep the kitchen uncluttered, careful planning of internal storage systems was considered in the form of using SieMatic’s internal Drawer boxes and their MultiMatic internal storage system which were used to store smaller items such as spices and sauces, as well whilst providing space for slide-out drawers and storage baskets. To ensure an elegant yet ‘wow’ factor central island, The Myers Touch combined contrasting textures by using 30mm Silestone Eternal Calacatta natural stone, polished worktops with ‘waterfall island’ edges and a Corian solid surface back panel. The distinctive geometric patterned Corian panel in Cameo White looks particularly spectacular at night when the owner's turn on the architectural-toned lighting under the island. Appliances chosen for the island included a sophisticated Elica Illusion extractor hood so it could be totally integrated in the new architectural space without visual distraction, a Siemens iQ500 Induction Hob with touch-slide control and a Caple Under-counter Wine cabinet. To maximise every inch of the new space, and to ensure the owners had a place for everything, The Myers Touch also used additional cabinetry and storage options in the island such as extra deep drawers to store saucepans, cutlery, and everyday crockery. The eye-catching Antique-bronze mirrored splashback not only helps to provide the illusion of extra space, but reinforces family ‘togetherness’ as it reflects and links the rear of the kitchen ‘snug’ area where family members can sit and relax or work when not in the main kitchen extension area. The original toned brickwork and 18th Century steel windows in the original part of the extension also helps to tell the story about the older part of the house which now juxtaposes to the new, contemporary kitchen living extension. A handy door was also included in the extension which leads to the garage on the main road for family convenience and over-flow storage. Photography by Paul Craig (Reproduction of image by request only - joy@bakerpr.co.uk)

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.

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.

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.

New materials include stone, board and batten and stained cedar shingles. PVC trim was added as existing cornices were cut back.
Mid-sized elegant two-story stone exterior home photo in Louisville

Ocean Blue Pools LLC is widely recognized for extravagant swimming pool construction and unmatched customer service. Our specialties include custom designed swimming pools, spas, beautiful rock and stone water features and astounding outdoor kitchens and living spaces. The designing process incorporates classic principles, proportioned balance and expert design in accordance with your topography and space. We strive to make your outdoor living space as user friendly as it is beautiful. With profound focus on our client’s needs, we will design around your unique lifestyle and taste and create a space that is inviting, comfortable, safe, and engages the senses. Your swimming pool, which becomes the focal point, is just one component of the backyard. The landscape, lighting, water features, fire pit or outdoor kitchen will define your pool and evoke emotion. Our design team will offer several feature choices to create the most exciting and relaxing outdoor environment using the harmony of these elements. The design process begins with a consultation to understand your lifestyle and vision for your new outdoor living space. We will inquire about your usage plans and the vision you would like to achieve. We take into consideration, location of views, site conditions and accessibility. We will examine your homes existing architectural design to ensure continuity and flow from your home into to your new outdoor living space. Our design team and graphic artists will then transform your vision into conceptual drawings and renderings. A visual presentation will also be prepared to convey the look and feel of the proposed project. Under the design process, materials will be recommended which may include: pavers, travertine, glass tile, stone veneer, precast concrete, landscape and lighting. The final design drawings will provide an accurate representation of your new outdoor living space. Once the design process is complete, we will construct your project to the exact vision of the original design concept. We will maintain relentless attention to detail with our latest innovations and technology. All projects are managed from decades of experience by our trained superintendent who will manage timeframes, quality, and most of all, the client’s expectations. Our goal is to exceed your expectations. Randall Schmidt / Design and Construction

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub