ARCHITECTURE: Certificate of Merit
 PROJECT: Consolidation and Sustainability Initiative – Building 14 CLIENT: Bayer Material Science ARCHITECTURE FIRM: IDC Architects, PC CONTRACTOR: Bridges & Company, Inc. ENGINEERS: IDC Architects, PC PHOTOGRAPHER: Massery Photography, Inc. DESCRIPTION: During the design of the Building 14 renovation, it became apparent the existing lobby was insufficient and an expansion for a new lobby was necessary. Expanding the lobby provided an opportunity to enhance the building entry. The design alludes to a traditional ‘porch’ as a welcoming gesture. The selection of materials and how they are joined and supported heightens the experience of place and provides visual interest at an intimate scale. Originally an afterthought, the new entrance has become a centerpiece for the building and the surrounding campus. JURY COMMENTS: This is a restrained and elegant intervention on an existing building. It was done very honestly. The architects enhanced the building by creating a stronger entrance. The plaza engages the landscape and the jury liked the interaction between it and the building. The pavilion and entry procession integrate nicely with the outside, landscape and parking.

Designer: Larry Rych Photos: Mike Kaske New owners of this fabulous condo wanted an interior that was as inspiring as the view. A clean and masculine design with clearly defined angles reflects the architecture of the building. White cabinets on top brightens the room, while the rich dark floor is very grounding. The bamboo base cabinets gives needed texture and warm to the home. The ultimate in uniformity was achieved in the floor when the tile seamlessly meets the hardwood.

  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

This renovation for a young family with two boys truly reflects the essence of thoughtful design that balances aesthetics with practicality. The decision to remove two walls and replace them with beams covered in red oak veneers speaks to the family’s need for an open floor plan, ensuring important sight lines while the boys play—a perfect solution for parents who want a balance between modern living and supervision. The arch in the range hood becomes a focal point, introducing elegance and architectural sophistication to the space, while the black gloss "handmade" herringbone backsplash tiles add a layer of dynamic texture that elevates the kitchen's design. These touches show that this renovation wasn’t just about creating a functional space, but one with character and style. Functionality was clearly top of mind, with the focus on ample storage, modern appliances, and smart layouts. These elements allow the kitchen to meet the demands of a busy family, whether it’s for everyday meals or special gatherings. The seamless flow between the kitchen, dining room, and great room makes this space ideal for entertaining and family interaction, further enhanced by the clean, open lines. This renovation serves as a great example of how thoughtful design can transform a home, making it not only more beautiful but also more enjoyable and efficient for day-to-day living.

Masland Carpets & Rugs takes pride in its products. With high-quality materials and outstanding products, you can create the space of your dreams with Masland Carpets and Rugs. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

Tuftex carpet is crafted with high-quality, sustainable materials to help create seamless lines and timeless designs. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award-winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

Masland Carpets & Rugs takes pride in its products. With high-quality materials and outstanding products, you can create the space of your dreams with Masland Carpets and Rugs. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award-winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

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.

Our clients had a very comfortable getaway home in Williams Bay. But, like the wall of fame that displayed the memorable fish they’d landed over the years, their kitchen needed to be rearranged and refreshed to better serve the friends and family they looked to host. The small gallery-style kitchen was small and blocked off to the rest of the home. It was very restrictive when friends and family gathered. It needed a new layout to accommodate more people, more comfortably. This required a change to the layout of the adjoining great room and entryway. Walls were removed and modified to accept the larger kitchen layout and integrate seamlessly with the great room and entryway, creating a warm and comfortable area where our clients could now entertain and interact at the same time – no longer hidden away in the tight quarters of their old kitchen. And of course … We made plenty of room to display their wall of fame with room to add even more memories.

Modern luxury kitchen perfectly blends upscale design with practical functionality, offering a seamless connection to the open living area and breathtaking waterfront views. The striking black kitchen island, topped with a pristine white countertop, serves as both a functional workspace and an elegant focal point, complemented by a deep farmhouse sink for a touch of classic charm. Sleek brass hardware enhances the cabinetry’s rich tones, while warm wood flooring adds natural texture and continuity throughout the space. Overhead, statement pendant lights provide soft, ambient illumination, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere. The open layout allows effortless interaction between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, making it ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. With premium finishes, thoughtful details, and a backdrop of serene water views, this kitchen epitomizes sophisticated coastal living.

Our clients had a very comfortable getaway home in Williams Bay. But, like the wall of fame that displayed the memorable fish they’d landed over the years, their kitchen needed to be rearranged and refreshed to better serve the friends and family they looked to host. The small gallery-style kitchen was small and blocked off to the rest of the home. It was very restrictive when friends and family gathered. It needed a new layout to accommodate more people, more comfortably. This required a change to the layout of the adjoining great room and entryway. Walls were removed and modified to accept the larger kitchen layout and integrate seamlessly with the great room and entryway, creating a warm and comfortable area where our clients could now entertain and interact at the same time – no longer hidden away in the tight quarters of their old kitchen. And of course … We made plenty of room to display their wall of fame with room to add even more memories.

This renovation for a young family with two boys truly reflects the essence of thoughtful design that balances aesthetics with practicality. The decision to remove two walls and replace them with beams covered in red oak veneers speaks to the family’s need for an open floor plan, ensuring important sight lines while the boys play—a perfect solution for parents who want a balance between modern living and supervision. The arch in the range hood becomes a focal point, introducing elegance and architectural sophistication to the space, while the black gloss "handmade" herringbone backsplash tiles add a layer of dynamic texture that elevates the kitchen's design. These touches show that this renovation wasn’t just about creating a functional space, but one with character and style. Functionality was clearly top of mind, with the focus on ample storage, modern appliances, and smart layouts. These elements allow the kitchen to meet the demands of a busy family, whether it’s for everyday meals or special gatherings. The seamless flow between the kitchen, dining room, and great room makes this space ideal for entertaining and family interaction, further enhanced by the clean, open lines. This renovation serves as a great example of how thoughtful design can transform a home, making it not only more beautiful but also more enjoyable and efficient for day-to-day living.

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.

Built on a steep lakeside terrain, the Tsuga residence by Appareil Architecture is an ambitious project that required meticulous planning and flawless execution. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Brownsburg-Chatham, Tsuga elevates a complex site to offer a seamless immersion in nature. Balancing the site’s constraints with a high level of finish, every phase of the project was designed to reconcile technical challenges with precision. Modulor expertly managed all collaborators, ensuring a level of detail that defines a project of this scale. On the exterior, the building envelope combines durability with refinement. Carefully selected natural wood cladding interacts with a perforated screen that filters light and adds depth to the façade. The integration of openings was strategically planned to maximize views while maintaining a cohesive architectural expression. Inside, the materials and finishes reflect the same commitment to quality. Wooden paneling wraps the spaces, creating visual continuity and a warm atmosphere. The stainless steel kitchen, with its clean lines and custom design, introduces a striking contrast between modernity and natural textures. Every junction, every material transition was meticulously crafted to ensure a flawless result, with no compromises on durability or functionality. Designed for an architectural historian and a musician and opera singer, Tsuga is the result of meticulous craftsmanship. A home built to stand the test of time, with an unwavering attention to detail.

Tuftex carpet is crafted with high-quality, sustainable materials to help create seamless lines and timeless designs. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award-winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

Built on a steep lakeside terrain, the Tsuga residence by Appareil Architecture is an ambitious project that required meticulous planning and flawless execution. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Brownsburg-Chatham, Tsuga elevates a complex site to offer a seamless immersion in nature. Balancing the site’s constraints with a high level of finish, every phase of the project was designed to reconcile technical challenges with precision. Modulor expertly managed all collaborators, ensuring a level of detail that defines a project of this scale. On the exterior, the building envelope combines durability with refinement. Carefully selected natural wood cladding interacts with a perforated screen that filters light and adds depth to the façade. The integration of openings was strategically planned to maximize views while maintaining a cohesive architectural expression. Inside, the materials and finishes reflect the same commitment to quality. Wooden paneling wraps the spaces, creating visual continuity and a warm atmosphere. The stainless steel kitchen, with its clean lines and custom design, introduces a striking contrast between modernity and natural textures. Every junction, every material transition was meticulously crafted to ensure a flawless result, with no compromises on durability or functionality. Designed for an architectural historian and a musician and opera singer, Tsuga is the result of meticulous craftsmanship. A home built to stand the test of time, with an unwavering attention to detail.

This renovation for a young family with two boys truly reflects the essence of thoughtful design that balances aesthetics with practicality. The decision to remove two walls and replace them with beams covered in red oak veneers speaks to the family’s need for an open floor plan, ensuring important sight lines while the boys play—a perfect solution for parents who want a balance between modern living and supervision. The arch in the range hood becomes a focal point, introducing elegance and architectural sophistication to the space, while the black gloss "handmade" herringbone backsplash tiles add a layer of dynamic texture that elevates the kitchen's design. These touches show that this renovation wasn’t just about creating a functional space, but one with character and style. Functionality was clearly top of mind, with the focus on ample storage, modern appliances, and smart layouts. These elements allow the kitchen to meet the demands of a busy family, whether it’s for everyday meals or special gatherings. The seamless flow between the kitchen, dining room, and great room makes this space ideal for entertaining and family interaction, further enhanced by the clean, open lines. This renovation serves as a great example of how thoughtful design can transform a home, making it not only more beautiful but also more enjoyable and efficient for day-to-day living.

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.

Masland Carpets & Rugs takes pride in its products. With high-quality materials and outstanding products, you can create the space of your dreams with Masland Carpets and Rugs. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.