Search results for "Creating interactive" in Home Design Ideas

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Architecture and Interior Designing has evolved significantly over the years in response to changing lifestyles, rapid urbanisation, and technological advancements. Today, the focus is no longer just on creating visually appealing spaces, but on designing environments that are intelligent, adaptable, sustainable, and deeply human-centric. Elite 18 reflects this evolution through a modern residential narrative that balances functionality, comfort, and emotional well-being.
Designed by Sandeep & Shreya Sahani, the project responds thoughtfully to the demands of contemporary urban living. As cities continue to grow denser, architecture is increasingly shifting towards smarter planning and efficient use of space. Compact yet breathable layouts, multifunctional areas, and vertical living concepts are becoming essential in modern residential developments. At Elite 18, the design approach embraces openness, fluidity, and practicality, ensuring that spaces remain functional while maintaining a sense of luxury and calm.
Changing lifestyles have also transformed the way homes are designed. With remote work and flexible routines becoming part of everyday life, modern residences now require adaptable spaces that can seamlessly support work, leisure, and social interaction. The interiors at Elite 18 are curated with clean lines, soothing tones, and uncluttered layouts that enhance comfort while supporting modern living patterns.
Technology has further reshaped architecture by introducing smarter and more responsive environments. Contemporary buildings increasingly integrate smart lighting, climate control systems, touchless features, and digital planning tools to improve convenience and efficiency. This shift towards intelligent architecture allows spaces to become more personalised and responsive to user behaviour.
Sustainability has also become a defining aspect of modern architectural thinking. With growing environmental awareness and climate concerns, architects are prioritising energy efficiency, natural ventilation, climate-responsive materials, and sustainable construction practices. At Elite 18, strategic placement of openings, balanced natural light, and thoughtful material selection contribute to a more energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environment.
Overall, architecture today is evolving beyond aesthetics to create spaces that are adaptive, environmentally responsible, and emotionally enriching. Elite 18 stands as a reflection of this transformation, where thoughtful design, sustainability, technology, and modern lifestyles come together to shape the future of urban living.

This family throws some mean parties where large crowds usually sit at the poolside. There’s an entire section of this walk out second level that is dedicated to entertaining which also gives access to the pool in the backyard. This place comes alive at night with built in surround sounds and LED lights. There was just one issue. The kitchen.
The kitchen did not fit in. It was old, outdated, out-styled and nonfunctional. They knew the kitchen had to be address eventually but they just didn’t want to redo the kitchen. They wanted to revamp the kitchen, so they asked us to come in and look at the space to see how we can design this second floor kitchen in their New Rochelle home.
It was a small kitchen, strategically located where it could be the hub that the family wanted it to be. It held its own amongst everything that was in the open space like the big screen TV, fireplace and pool table. That is exactly what we did in the design and here is how we did it.
First, we got rid of the kitchen table and by doing so we created a peninsular. This eventually sets up the space for a couple of really cool pendant lights, some unique counter chairs and a wine cooler that was purchased before but never really had a home. We then turned our attention to the range and hood. This was not the main kitchen, so wall storage wasn’t the main goal here. We wanted to create a more open feel interaction while in the kitchen, hence we designed the free standing chimney hood alone to the left of the window.
We then looked at how we can make it more entertaining. We did that by adding a Wine rack on a buffet style type area. This wall was free and would have remained empty had we not find a way to add some more glitz.
Finally came the counter-top. Every detail was crucial because the view of the kitchen can be seen from when you enter the front door even if it was on the second floor walk out. The use of the space called for a waterfall edge counter-top and more importantly, the stone selection to further accentuate the effect. It was crucial that there was movement in the stone which connects to the 45 degree waterfall edge so it would be very dramatic.
Nothing was overlooked in this space. It had to be done this way if it was going to have a fighting chance to take command of its territory.
Have a look at some before and after photos on the left and see a brief video transformation of this lovely small kitchen.
See more photos and vidoe of this transformation on our website @ http://www.rajkitchenandbath.com/portfolio-items/kitchen-remodel-new-rochelle-ny-10801/
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This family throws some mean parties where large crowds usually sit at the poolside. There’s an entire section of this walk out second level that is dedicated to entertaining which also gives access to the pool in the backyard. This place comes alive at night with built in surround sounds and LED lights. There was just one issue. The kitchen.
The kitchen did not fit in. It was old, outdated, out-styled and nonfunctional. They knew the kitchen had to be address eventually but they just didn’t want to redo the kitchen. They wanted to revamp the kitchen, so they asked us to come in and look at the space to see how we can design this second floor kitchen in their New Rochelle home.
It was a small kitchen, strategically located where it could be the hub that the family wanted it to be. It held its own amongst everything that was in the open space like the big screen TV, fireplace and pool table. That is exactly what we did in the design and here is how we did it.
First, we got rid of the kitchen table and by doing so we created a peninsular. This eventually sets up the space for a couple of really cool pendant lights, some unique counter chairs and a wine cooler that was purchased before but never really had a home. We then turned our attention to the range and hood. This was not the main kitchen, so wall storage wasn’t the main goal here. We wanted to create a more open feel interaction while in the kitchen, hence we designed the free standing chimney hood alone to the left of the window.
We then looked at how we can make it more entertaining. We did that by adding a Wine rack on a buffet style type area. This wall was free and would have remained empty had we not find a way to add some more glitz.
Finally came the counter-top. Every detail was crucial because the view of the kitchen can be seen from when you enter the front door even if it was on the second floor walk out. The use of the space called for a waterfall edge counter-top and more importantly, the stone selection to further accentuate the effect. It was crucial that there was movement in the stone which connects to the 45 degree waterfall edge so it would be very dramatic.
Nothing was overlooked in this space. It had to be done this way if it was going to have a fighting chance to take command of its territory.
Have a look at some before and after photos on the left and see a brief video transformation of this lovely small kitchen.
See more photos and vidoe of this transformation on our website @ http://www.rajkitchenandbath.com/portfolio-items/kitchen-remodel-new-rochelle-ny-10801/

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Architecture and Interior Designing has evolved significantly over the years in response to changing lifestyles, rapid urbanisation, and technological advancements. Today, the focus is no longer just on creating visually appealing spaces, but on designing environments that are intelligent, adaptable, sustainable, and deeply human-centric. Elite 18 reflects this evolution through a modern residential narrative that balances functionality, comfort, and emotional well-being.
Designed by Sandeep & Shreya Sahani, the project responds thoughtfully to the demands of contemporary urban living. As cities continue to grow denser, architecture is increasingly shifting towards smarter planning and efficient use of space. Compact yet breathable layouts, multifunctional areas, and vertical living concepts are becoming essential in modern residential developments. At Elite 18, the design approach embraces openness, fluidity, and practicality, ensuring that spaces remain functional while maintaining a sense of luxury and calm.
Changing lifestyles have also transformed the way homes are designed. With remote work and flexible routines becoming part of everyday life, modern residences now require adaptable spaces that can seamlessly support work, leisure, and social interaction. The interiors at Elite 18 are curated with clean lines, soothing tones, and uncluttered layouts that enhance comfort while supporting modern living patterns.
Technology has further reshaped architecture by introducing smarter and more responsive environments. Contemporary buildings increasingly integrate smart lighting, climate control systems, touchless features, and digital planning tools to improve convenience and efficiency. This shift towards intelligent architecture allows spaces to become more personalised and responsive to user behaviour.
Sustainability has also become a defining aspect of modern architectural thinking. With growing environmental awareness and climate concerns, architects are prioritising energy efficiency, natural ventilation, climate-responsive materials, and sustainable construction practices. At Elite 18, strategic placement of openings, balanced natural light, and thoughtful material selection contribute to a more energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environment.
Overall, architecture today is evolving beyond aesthetics to create spaces that are adaptive, environmentally responsible, and emotionally enriching. Elite 18 stands as a reflection of this transformation, where thoughtful design, sustainability, technology, and modern lifestyles come together to shape the future of urban living.

Architecture and Interior Designing has evolved significantly over the years in response to changing lifestyles, rapid urbanisation, and technological advancements. Today, the focus is no longer just on creating visually appealing spaces, but on designing environments that are intelligent, adaptable, sustainable, and deeply human-centric. Elite 18 reflects this evolution through a modern residential narrative that balances functionality, comfort, and emotional well-being.
Designed by Sandeep & Shreya Sahani, the project responds thoughtfully to the demands of contemporary urban living. As cities continue to grow denser, architecture is increasingly shifting towards smarter planning and efficient use of space. Compact yet breathable layouts, multifunctional areas, and vertical living concepts are becoming essential in modern residential developments. At Elite 18, the design approach embraces openness, fluidity, and practicality, ensuring that spaces remain functional while maintaining a sense of luxury and calm.
Changing lifestyles have also transformed the way homes are designed. With remote work and flexible routines becoming part of everyday life, modern residences now require adaptable spaces that can seamlessly support work, leisure, and social interaction. The interiors at Elite 18 are curated with clean lines, soothing tones, and uncluttered layouts that enhance comfort while supporting modern living patterns.
Technology has further reshaped architecture by introducing smarter and more responsive environments. Contemporary buildings increasingly integrate smart lighting, climate control systems, touchless features, and digital planning tools to improve convenience and efficiency. This shift towards intelligent architecture allows spaces to become more personalised and responsive to user behaviour.
Sustainability has also become a defining aspect of modern architectural thinking. With growing environmental awareness and climate concerns, architects are prioritising energy efficiency, natural ventilation, climate-responsive materials, and sustainable construction practices. At Elite 18, strategic placement of openings, balanced natural light, and thoughtful material selection contribute to a more energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environment.
Overall, architecture today is evolving beyond aesthetics to create spaces that are adaptive, environmentally responsible, and emotionally enriching. Elite 18 stands as a reflection of this transformation, where thoughtful design, sustainability, technology, and modern lifestyles come together to shape the future of urban living.

Sponsored
Plain City, OH
The Creative Kitchen Company
Columbus Area Kitchen Remodeling and Refacing Professional

Quadro 4088 Ginger Ash with Frosted Glass Description
Discovering Magnificence and Function with Double Barn Doors
Stepping into a breathtaking home interior is a satisfying sensory experience. Modern interior designers suggest incorporating a stunning piece that fuses both style and functionality, achieving a perfect balance - the element of brilliance. A splendid example of this very fusion is the Double Barn Doors.
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In today's world, everything from modular kitchens to sleek bathroom furniture plays a role in communicating design sensibilities. Among these items of interest, Double Barn Doors beautifully incorporate classic aesthetics into contemporary design schemes. Crafted in a warm Ginger Ash color palette, these doors radiate a tingling sense of welcoming warmth. Aesthetically, they're an unlikely suitor for the Silver Rail, yet they pair perfectly together, merging into an object of profound beauty.
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More than just a Door
As you order and buy interior doors, the Double Barn Doors stand out for their unique fusion of craftsmanship and material choice. Its Glass is not just any ordinary glass. Imagine a frosted morning sunrise, the ray of light peeking through the softly hued clouds - Frosted Glass on these Double Barn Doors replicates this serene sensation.
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Double Barn Doors' Rail Color is a well-thought detail that gives a hint of modernity. The Silver Rail wraps around the door in smooth, clean lines, harmonizing with the Ginger Ash color to create a minimalist, yet extremely stylish visual effect. From a distance, the door appears as a piece of fine art, drawing the eye of any visitor to your space.
Experience the Splendor of Double Barn Doors
Live in Style, Every day
When you order and buy doors, remember that doors go beyond mere passageways; they are statement pieces, boundary setters, and focal points of your home design. And with Double Barn Doors, each day begins and ends with an interaction of superb style and unwavering quality.
A door to a beautiful home experience
Let your home reflect your style and taste while maintaining the practicality aspect. The Double Barn Doors create an opening into a world of aesthetic pleasure. So, are you ready to infuse your home with this unique blend of style and practicality?

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
The homeowner and his wife had lived in this beautiful townhome in Oak Brook overlooking a small lake for over 13 years. The home is open and airy with vaulted ceilings and full of mementos from world adventures through the years, including to Cambodia, home of their much-adored sponsored daughter. The home, full of love and memories was host to a growing extended family of children and grandchildren. This was THE place. When the homeowner’s wife passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, he became determined to create a space that would continue to welcome and host his family and the many wonderful family memories that lay ahead but with an eye towards functionality.
We started out by evaluating how the space would be used. Cooking and watching sports were key factors. So, we shuffled the current dining table into a rarely used living room whereby enlarging the kitchen. The kitchen now houses two large islands – one for prep and the other for seating and buffet space. We removed the wall between kitchen and family room to encourage interaction during family gatherings and of course a clear view to the game on TV. We also removed a dropped ceiling in the kitchen, and wow, what a difference.
Next, we added some drama with a large arch between kitchen and dining room creating a stunning architectural feature between those two spaces. This arch echoes the shape of the large arch at the front door of the townhome, providing drama and significance to the space. The kitchen itself is large but does not have much wall space, which is a common challenge when removing walls. We added a bit more by resizing the double French doors to a balcony at the side of the house which is now just a single door. This gave more breathing room to the range wall and large stone hood but still provides access and light.
We chose a neutral pallet of black, white, and white oak, with punches of blue at the counter stools in the kitchen. The cabinetry features a white shaker door at the perimeter for a crisp outline. Countertops and custom hood are black Caesarstone, and the islands are a soft white oak adding contrast and warmth. Two large built ins between the kitchen and dining room function as pantry space as well as area to display flowers or seasonal decorations.
We repeated the blue in the dining room where we added a fresh coat of paint to the existing built ins, along with painted wainscot paneling. Above the wainscot is a neutral grass cloth wallpaper which provides a lovely backdrop for a wall of important mementos and artifacts. The dining room table and chairs were refinished and re-upholstered, and a new rug and window treatments complete the space. The room now feels ready to host more formal gatherings or can function as a quiet spot to enjoy a cup of morning coffee.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

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Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
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What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

This family throws some mean parties where large crowds usually sit at the poolside. There’s an entire section of this walk out second level that is dedicated to entertaining which also gives access to the pool in the backyard. This place comes alive at night with built in surround sounds and LED lights. There was just one issue. The kitchen.
The kitchen did not fit in. It was old, outdated, out-styled and nonfunctional. They knew the kitchen had to be address eventually but they just didn’t want to redo the kitchen. They wanted to revamp the kitchen, so they asked us to come in and look at the space to see how we can design this second floor kitchen in their New Rochelle home.
It was a small kitchen, strategically located where it could be the hub that the family wanted it to be. It held its own amongst everything that was in the open space like the big screen TV, fireplace and pool table. That is exactly what we did in the design and here is how we did it.
First, we got rid of the kitchen table and by doing so we created a peninsular. This eventually sets up the space for a couple of really cool pendant lights, some unique counter chairs and a wine cooler that was purchased before but never really had a home. We then turned our attention to the range and hood. This was not the main kitchen, so wall storage wasn’t the main goal here. We wanted to create a more open feel interaction while in the kitchen, hence we designed the free standing chimney hood alone to the left of the window.
We then looked at how we can make it more entertaining. We did that by adding a Wine rack on a buffet style type area. This wall was free and would have remained empty had we not find a way to add some more glitz.
Finally came the counter-top. Every detail was crucial because the view of the kitchen can be seen from when you enter the front door even if it was on the second floor walk out. The use of the space called for a waterfall edge counter-top and more importantly, the stone selection to further accentuate the effect. It was crucial that there was movement in the stone which connects to the 45 degree waterfall edge so it would be very dramatic.
Nothing was overlooked in this space. It had to be done this way if it was going to have a fighting chance to take command of its territory.
Have a look at some before and after photos on the left and see a brief video transformation of this lovely small kitchen.
See more photos and vidoe of this transformation on our website @ http://www.rajkitchenandbath.com/portfolio-items/kitchen-remodel-new-rochelle-ny-10801/
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