Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This was a fun and special project for me to work on – it’s my parent’s new (to them) townhome. Downsizing from their previous home, and I collaborated with my architect father on redesigning their kitchen and master bathroom. Opening up the layout on the 1st floor was on the top of their list. They hoped to make it possible for whoever was cooking in the kitchen was still able to interact with people in family room and the dining room easily. An existing wall between the family room and the kitchen, made the kitchen feel cut off from the rest of the house. By removing the wall, we were able to turn the kitchen layout from the standard "U" shape kitchen to a galley which allowed for more storage and countertop space. White Dove frameless cabinetry from Woodharbor was used to give the space a light and fresh feel, while maximizing space within for easy storage. A built in-hutch in the dining room was added for additional storage without encroaching in the room itself. The master bathroom was completely remodeled as well from head-to-toe. The existing layout was not conducive to my parent’s daily lifestyle. It had one vanity, an awkward corner tub with a just as awkward corner shower which seemed more like a dungeon than a shower. We gutted the existing bathroom, relocated a wall to create a large walk-in closet, omitted the tub, and created a nice spa like shower. The new layout also allowed them to have a double vanity with a small make-up area in between. Some features we added into the bathroom were heated floors, which are especially nice during the cold Chicago winters, custom marble tile as an accent in the shower, and a custom shower enclosure which really kept the room open. Designed by: Keri Pryde Photography by: Mike Kaskal For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Awakening Your Senses | Our private living space is a mirror of our personality. A charming fusion of different styles and objects, of memories and emotions. In the course of time, everything finds its place - whether intentionally or at random, whether it be something handed down to you by your grandmother or discovered while you were travelling, whether it be modern or classic in origin. In this way, every living space tells its own, very individual, story. It is the story and the desires of the people who live in this space and who provide it with a character all of its own.The change and the interaction of personal styles is the foundation of the new Axor Urquiola collection. Take advantage of this new freedom to release your own, invigorating mix of styles and create your personal retreat. With Axor Urquiola, the line between bathroom and living area, between today and tomorrow becomes fluid. It offers an invigorating freedom that awakens our senses - every day anew. | Available at www.shopstudio41.com

The owners of a charming home in the hills west of Paso Robles recently decided to remodel their not-so-charming kitchen. Referred to San Luis Kitchen by several of their friends, the homeowners visited our showroom and soon decided we were the best people to design a kitchen fitting the style of their home. We were delighted to get to work on the project right away. When we arrived at the house, we found a small, cramped and out-dated kitchen. The ceiling was low, the cabinets old fashioned and painted a stark dead white, and the best view in the house was neglected in a seldom-used breakfast nook (sequestered behind the kitchen peninsula). This kitchen was also handicapped by white tile counters with dark grout, odd-sized and cluttered cabinets, and small ‘desk’ tacked on to the side of the oven cabinet. Due to a marked lack of counter space & inadequate storage the homeowner had resorted to keeping her small appliances on a little cart parked in the corner and the garbage was just sitting by the wall in full view of everything! On the plus side, the kitchen opened into a nice dining room and had beautiful saltillo tile floors. Mrs. Homeowner loves to entertain and often hosts dinner parties for her friends. She enjoys visiting with her guests in the kitchen while putting the finishing touches on the evening’s meal. Sadly, her small kitchen really limited her interactions with her guests – she often felt left out of the mix at her own parties! This savvy homeowner dreamed big – a new kitchen that would accommodate multiple workstations, have space for guests to gather but not be in the way, and maybe a prettier transition from the kitchen to the dining (wine service area or hutch?) – while managing the remodel budget by reusing some of her major appliances and keeping (patching as needed) her existing floors. Responding to the homeowner’s stated wish list and the opportunities presented by the home's setting and existing architecture, the designers at San Luis Kitchen decided to expand the kitchen into the breakfast nook. This change allowed the work area to be reoriented to take advantage of the great view – we replaced the existing window and added another while moving the door to gain space. A second sink and set of refrigerator drawers (housing fresh fruits & veggies) were included for the convenience of this mainly vegetarian cook – her prep station. The clean-up area now boasts a farmhouse style single bowl sink – adding to the ‘cottage’ charm. We located a new gas cook-top between the two workstations for easy access from each. Also tucked in here is a pullout trash/recycle cabinet for convenience and additional drawers for storage. Running parallel to the work counter we added a long butcher-block island with easy-to-access open shelves for the avid cook and seating for friendly guests placed just right to take in the view. A counter-top garage is used to hide excess small appliances. Glass door cabinets and open shelves are now available to display the owners beautiful dishware. The microwave was placed inconspicuously on the end of the island facing the refrigerator – easy access for guests (and extraneous family members) to help themselves to drinks and snacks while staying out of the cook’s way. We also moved the pantry storage away from the dining room (putting it on the far wall and closer to the work triangle) and added a furniture-like hutch in its place allowing the more formal dining area to flow seamlessly into the up-beat work area of the kitchen. This space is now also home (opposite wall) to an under counter wine refrigerator, a liquor cabinet and pretty glass door wall cabinet for stemware storage – meeting Mr. Homeowner’s desire for a bar service area. And then the aesthetic: an old-world style country cottage theme. The homeowners wanted the kitchen to have a warm feel while still loving the look of white cabinetry. San Luis Kitchen melded country-casual knotty pine base cabinets with vintage hand-brushed creamy white wall cabinets to create the desired cottage look. We also added bead board and mullioned glass doors for charm, used an inset doorstyle on the cabinets for authenticity, and mixed stone and wood counters to create an eclectic nuance in the space. All in all, the happy homeowners now boast a charming county cottage kitchen with plenty of space for entertaining their guests while creating gourmet meals to feed them. Credits: Custom cabinetry by Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry Contracting by Michael Pezzato of Lost Coast Construction Stone counters by Pyramid M.T.M.

In the modern digital era, clear communication and seamless collaboration are essential for every type of organization. High-quality Audio-Video (AV) systems have become a key factor in creating efficient, interactive, and engaging environments. Media K Solutions provides expert AV integration services that are carefully designed to meet the needs of businesses, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and public spaces. The company’s approach focuses on delivering complete solutions rather than simple equipment installations. Their team collaborates closely with each client to design systems that are not only functional but also scalable and adaptable to future technological advancements. Every project is built to improve productivity, enhance user experience, and simplify daily operations. Media K Solutions specializes in a wide range of AV integration services, including: Installation of high-performance audio, video, and control systems that deliver exceptional clarity and reliability. Designing flexible AV configurations that can grow with the organization and adapt to evolving requirements. Integrating new technologies with existing systems to maximize compatibility and protect prior investments. Offering continuous maintenance and technical support to ensure long-term performance and system stability. Through these carefully implemented solutions, Media K Solutions helps organizations create connected spaces that inspire collaboration, learning, and creativity. Whether setting up a conference room, classroom, auditorium, or entertainment facility, their expertise ensures smooth functionality and lasting quality. For more information about their full range of services and project examples, visit their official website: https://mediaksolutions.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This was a fun and special project for me to work on – it’s my parent’s new (to them) townhome. Downsizing from their previous home, and I collaborated with my architect father on redesigning their kitchen and master bathroom. Opening up the layout on the 1st floor was on the top of their list. They hoped to make it possible for whoever was cooking in the kitchen was still able to interact with people in family room and the dining room easily. An existing wall between the family room and the kitchen, made the kitchen feel cut off from the rest of the house. By removing the wall, we were able to turn the kitchen layout from the standard "U" shape kitchen to a galley which allowed for more storage and countertop space. White Dove frameless cabinetry from Woodharbor was used to give the space a light and fresh feel, while maximizing space within for easy storage. A built in-hutch in the dining room was added for additional storage without encroaching in the room itself. The master bathroom was completely remodeled as well from head-to-toe. The existing layout was not conducive to my parent’s daily lifestyle. It had one vanity, an awkward corner tub with a just as awkward corner shower which seemed more like a dungeon than a shower. We gutted the existing bathroom, relocated a wall to create a large walk-in closet, omitted the tub, and created a nice spa like shower. The new layout also allowed them to have a double vanity with a small make-up area in between. Some features we added into the bathroom were heated floors, which are especially nice during the cold Chicago winters, custom marble tile as an accent in the shower, and a custom shower enclosure which really kept the room open. Designed by: Keri Pryde Photography by: Mike Kaskal For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This was a fun and special project for me to work on – it’s my parent’s new (to them) townhome. Downsizing from their previous home, and I collaborated with my architect father on redesigning their kitchen and master bathroom. Opening up the layout on the 1st floor was on the top of their list. They hoped to make it possible for whoever was cooking in the kitchen was still able to interact with people in family room and the dining room easily. An existing wall between the family room and the kitchen, made the kitchen feel cut off from the rest of the house. By removing the wall, we were able to turn the kitchen layout from the standard "U" shape kitchen to a galley which allowed for more storage and countertop space. White Dove frameless cabinetry from Woodharbor was used to give the space a light and fresh feel, while maximizing space within for easy storage. A built in-hutch in the dining room was added for additional storage without encroaching in the room itself. The master bathroom was completely remodeled as well from head-to-toe. The existing layout was not conducive to my parent’s daily lifestyle. It had one vanity, an awkward corner tub with a just as awkward corner shower which seemed more like a dungeon than a shower. We gutted the existing bathroom, relocated a wall to create a large walk-in closet, omitted the tub, and created a nice spa like shower. The new layout also allowed them to have a double vanity with a small make-up area in between. Some features we added into the bathroom were heated floors, which are especially nice during the cold Chicago winters, custom marble tile as an accent in the shower, and a custom shower enclosure which really kept the room open. Designed by: Keri Pryde Photography by: Mike Kaskal For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

What comes to mind when you envision the perfect multi-faceted living spaces? Is it an expansive amount of counter space at which to cook, work, or entertain freely? Abundant and practical cabinet organization to keep clutter at bay and the space looking beautiful? Or perhaps the answer is all of the above, along with a cosy spot to retreat after the long day is complete. The project we are sharing with you here has each of these elements in spades: spaces that combine beauty with function, promote comfort and relaxation, and make time at home enjoyable for this active family of three. Our main focus was to remodel the kitchen, where we hoped to create a functional layout for everyday use. Our clients also hoped to incorporate a home office right into the kitchen itself. However, the clients realized that renovation the kitchen alone wouldn’t create the full transformation they were looking for. Kitchens interact intimately with their adjacent spaces, especially family rooms, and we were determined to elevate their daily living experience from top to bottom. We redesigned the kitchen and living area to increase work surfaces and storage solutions, create comfortable and luxurious spaces to unwind, and update the overall aesthetic to fit their more modern, collected taste. Here’s how it turned out…

How do you make an impact within a familiar project typology? For our first cafe for Spro Coffee Lab, and their flagship location, we combined a long-held vision of a cafe with a faceted ceiling, their red & white material palette, and the building owner’s desire for an iconic street presence into a unified, minimalist language of angles and facets that extends throughout the cafe. Overhead, a faceted soffit juts out dramatically over the service bar, the two objects mirroring each other’s footprints and satisfying Health Code requirements for a smooth, cleanable surface overhead. Concealing an egress corridor above that bisects the space, the soffit presents a bold visual gesture through the floor-to-ceiling glass walls of this corner space, beckoning passersby inside. The service bar points toward the entry, with a minimalist espresso-tap system as the focal point, and angled sections branching off in both directions to create seating and service areas and direct customer flow. Throughout the space, surfaces customers interact with are clad in chocolate-colored cork, providing a highly textured, tactile contrast to the smooth, white primary materials and complementing the bronze window system, red logos, and customer seating. The unfinished cork is durable and stain-resistant, resilient to the touch, provides acoustic dampening, and is highly sustainable. The result is a cafe that goes far beyond the project brief, creating a memorable experience and an iconic presence for the brand.

In Cupertino, we recently completed an extensive remodeling project that transformed a dated home into a modern sanctuary. The project included a complete outdoor renovation with a lush lawn, spacious porch, and inviting patio. Inside, the living room was redesigned with a cozy fireplace and comfortable seating arrangements. The kitchen now features all-new wooden cabinets and countertops, providing ample storage and workspace. A vintage-style bathroom was remodeled with sleek black accessories and elegant lighting fixtures. An open kitchen layout fosters gatherings and social interaction, while a dedicated gym area promotes health and wellness. This comprehensive remodel reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and creating spaces that enhance luxury living.

This stunning transitional kitchen remodel incorporates a range of upgrades, including a new cooktop, countertops with an extended overhang on the island, a sleek faucet, updated cabinet hardware, and a captivating tile backsplash. To enhance the kitchen's appeal and functionality, we have installed exquisite countertops that serve as both a striking visual element and a durable workspace. The addition of an extended overhang to the island introduces a versatile seating area, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. This thoughtful design element maximizes the kitchen's space while creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages social interaction. To complete the look, we have carefully selected a sleek Faucet along with cabinet hardware that perfectly complements the overall aesthetic. These stylish elements not only add a touch of sophistication but also improve the accessibility and functionality of the kitchen Last but not least, the tile backsplash serves as a stunning focal point, tying the entire design together. The backsplash adds texture and visual interest, transforming your kitchen into a true work of art. This transitional kitchen remodel is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and design. With its seamless blend of modern and traditional elements, it offers a timeless and inviting space where you can cook, entertain, and create lasting memories.

How do you make an impact within a familiar project typology? For our first cafe for Spro Coffee Lab, and their flagship location, we combined a long-held vision of a cafe with a faceted ceiling, their red & white material palette, and the building owner’s desire for an iconic street presence into a unified, minimalist language of angles and facets that extends throughout the cafe. Overhead, a faceted soffit juts out dramatically over the service bar, the two objects mirroring each other’s footprints and satisfying Health Code requirements for a smooth, cleanable surface overhead. Concealing an egress corridor above that bisects the space, the soffit presents a bold visual gesture through the floor-to-ceiling glass walls of this corner space, beckoning passersby inside. The service bar points toward the entry, with a minimalist espresso-tap system as the focal point, and angled sections branching off in both directions to create seating and service areas and direct customer flow. Throughout the space, surfaces customers interact with are clad in chocolate-colored cork, providing a highly textured, tactile contrast to the smooth, white primary materials and complementing the bronze window system, red logos, and customer seating. The unfinished cork is durable and stain-resistant, resilient to the touch, provides acoustic dampening, and is highly sustainable. The result is a cafe that goes far beyond the project brief, creating a memorable experience and an iconic presence for the brand.

This image highlights the open concept layout achieved during a full house renovation in the Kerrisdale neighbourhood of Vancouver, completed by Arani Construction Inc. The kitchen island with integrated gas cooktop now faces the expanded living and dining area, creating a continuous and highly functional main floor layout. As part of the structural renovation, multiple interior walls were removed to transform the previously segmented floor plan into a large open space. In addition to removing the wall between the kitchen and dining area, another wall separating the dining room from the living room was also removed. Structural beams were installed to properly support the load while allowing the entire main level to remain open. This transformation created a long, uninterrupted sightline from one exterior window to another across the house, allowing natural light to travel through the entire space. The new layout significantly improves circulation, visibility, and interaction between the kitchen, dining, and living areas while maintaining the modern functionality of the kitchen island workspace.

What comes to mind when you envision the perfect multi-faceted living spaces? Is it an expansive amount of counter space at which to cook, work, or entertain freely? Abundant and practical cabinet organization to keep clutter at bay and the space looking beautiful? Or perhaps the answer is all of the above, along with a cosy spot to retreat after the long day is complete. The project we are sharing with you here has each of these elements in spades: spaces that combine beauty with function, promote comfort and relaxation, and make time at home enjoyable for this active family of three. Our main focus was to remodel the kitchen, where we hoped to create a functional layout for everyday use. Our clients also hoped to incorporate a home office right into the kitchen itself. However, the clients realized that renovation the kitchen alone wouldn’t create the full transformation they were looking for. Kitchens interact intimately with their adjacent spaces, especially family rooms, and we were determined to elevate their daily living experience from top to bottom. We redesigned the kitchen and living area to increase work surfaces and storage solutions, create comfortable and luxurious spaces to unwind, and update the overall aesthetic to fit their more modern, collected taste. Here’s how it turned out…

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

This custom desk area was designed as the creative heart of the room—a sophisticated workspace that supports both everyday function and artistic expression. The softly curved desk extends into the room to provide a generous work surface for studying, sketching, painting and collaborative projects with friends. A calming palette of natural wood tones, warm brass and soft blue creates an atmosphere that feels elegant yet youthful. The sculptural desk softens the room’s clean architectural lines while encouraging comfortable movement and interaction around the workspace. Integrated cabinetry provides abundant concealed storage for art supplies, books and creative materials, while frosted-glass doors softly obscure the contents to reduce visual clutter. Layered lighting, curated artwork and thoughtful styling add warmth and personality, creating an inspiring and highly functional workspace that feels personal to the young artist who uses it.

This 100 room assisted living housing center had been purchased by new owners. Their primary motive for the exterior of the property was to create an inviting and interactive setting for residents, visitors, employees, and family. Healthcare research shows that comfortable and stimulating seating areas close to the daily activity of the front doors are generally well used and popular areas among seniors and employees as well to prevent "workplace burnout". A crushed granite seating area, wooden benches, a recirculating waterfall, and a variety of plantings surround the front entry island. Seasonal color, texture, motion, shade, wildlife interest, mass and scale is provided by the mix of entryway, foundation, and entry island plantings.

In Cupertino, we recently completed an extensive remodeling project that transformed a dated home into a modern sanctuary. The project included a complete outdoor renovation with a lush lawn, spacious porch, and inviting patio. Inside, the living room was redesigned with a cozy fireplace and comfortable seating arrangements. The kitchen now features all-new wooden cabinets and countertops, providing ample storage and workspace. A vintage-style bathroom was remodeled with sleek black accessories and elegant lighting fixtures. An open kitchen layout fosters gatherings and social interaction, while a dedicated gym area promotes health and wellness. This comprehensive remodel reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and creating spaces that enhance luxury living.

THE METAL & GLASS SCULPTURE COLLECTION are three-dimensional contemporary works of art containing shapes and elements inspired by nature and fantasy. Each shape and linear element floats and flows in and out of space creating interactive movement and harmony between shape, line, material, negative space, and weight. The shape elements are cut from sheet and stainless steel then colorized with metal patinas bringing out deep, rich mottled colors including turquoise, deep green and bronze, or faux finished with acrylic paints and metal powders. The linear elements are steel & stainless steel rods, bent, finished, and welded into place. The composition is framed with 1” square steel tubing painted black.