Search results for "Creating strong" in Home Design Ideas

Inspired by the client’s frequent trips to Martha’s Vineyard, this renovation project’s primary goal was to create a landscape complimentary of this Colonial Revival style home, reminiscent of Edgartown, Massachusetts.
The front landscape was specifically designed to offer expansive views of a layered horizontal foundation planting that nestled itself around the base of the home, allowing the home itself to be the star of the show. Flowering borders that rotate with the seasons create a strong foreground while a clipped yew hedge forms the barrier needed to separate the billowing panicle hydrangeas in the background. The axial design of the herringbone front walk, punctuated by a bluestone transitional space and formal cast limestone urn, create an axis by which all other landscape elements are symmetrically mirrored.
Desiring a rear entertainment space separated from the adjacent 4 car garage and recreational lawn, a series of intimate gathering spaces were designed to include Edgartown inspired architectural features that would establish the character of the garden while setting the backdrop for a robust mix of perennials, grasses, hedges and annuals. Mimicking the pattern and detail previously established on the stone base of the home, individually hand chiseled pieces of Valders veneer were used to construct the garden walls. Reclaimed street pavers border a reconfigured bluestone patio and create a garden walk that separates the garden into 4 equal quadrants; each section of the walk connecting itself to a prominent feature of the garden. The central paver transition space is backed by a concentric hedge of low growing boxwoods, delineating annual and perennial. The relocation of an arbor, in conjunction with a new evergreen hedge, creates the desired partition between relaxed conversation and open lawn activities. A brick masonry water feature with reclaimed 1916 antique cast iron tub anchors the garden and terminates the perennial adorned paver walk opposite the home’s fireplace centered within the main seating area.
Whether spending an evening with friends or a quiet moment alone, this quaint garden space offers our clients the perfect ambiance to pause and reflect on life’s special treasures.

Bell Rock Hideaway at Kinkell Byre was designed as a warm, welcoming and beautifully considered guest lodge for the St Andrews wedding venue. The brief was to create a relaxed yet elevated retreat that would feel comfortable, memorable and practical for guests, while still reflecting the character of its coastal setting and the rustic charm of Kinkell Byre.
The design brings together natural textures, rich grounding tones and carefully layered details to create a boutique experience. In the open-plan kitchen, living and dining space, warm timber, garnet-toned cabinetry, soft stone flooring and relaxed woven textures create a calm and inviting backdrop. Deep red upholstery, blue armchairs, natural rugs, rustic timber furniture and generous planting add depth, warmth and on brand personality.
The bedrooms were designed to feel restful and quietly luxurious, with soft neutral textiles, textured curtains, warm timber pieces, rattan lighting and subtle red accents. In the twin bedroom, a painted shiplap headboard wall creates a strong focal point, adding character and definition while keeping the overall scheme calm and welcoming.
The result is a timeless, comfortable and atmospheric hideaway that balances practicality with thoughtful design. A space created for gathering, relaxing and enjoying the beauty of its St Andrews setting.

Inspired by the client’s frequent trips to Martha’s Vineyard, this renovation project’s primary goal was to create a landscape complimentary of this Colonial Revival style home, reminiscent of Edgartown, Massachusetts.
The front landscape was specifically designed to offer expansive views of a layered horizontal foundation planting that nestled itself around the base of the home, allowing the home itself to be the star of the show. Flowering borders that rotate with the seasons create a strong foreground while a clipped yew hedge forms the barrier needed to separate the billowing panicle hydrangeas in the background. The axial design of the herringbone front walk, punctuated by a bluestone transitional space and formal cast limestone urn, create an axis by which all other landscape elements are symmetrically mirrored.
Desiring a rear entertainment space separated from the adjacent 4 car garage and recreational lawn, a series of intimate gathering spaces were designed to include Edgartown inspired architectural features that would establish the character of the garden while setting the backdrop for a robust mix of perennials, grasses, hedges and annuals. Mimicking the pattern and detail previously established on the stone base of the home, individually hand chiseled pieces of Valders veneer were used to construct the garden walls. Reclaimed street pavers border a reconfigured bluestone patio and create a garden walk that separates the garden into 4 equal quadrants; each section of the walk connecting itself to a prominent feature of the garden. The central paver transition space is backed by a concentric hedge of low growing boxwoods, delineating annual and perennial. The relocation of an arbor, in conjunction with a new evergreen hedge, creates the desired partition between relaxed conversation and open lawn activities. A brick masonry water feature with reclaimed 1916 antique cast iron tub anchors the garden and terminates the perennial adorned paver walk opposite the home’s fireplace centered within the main seating area.
Whether spending an evening with friends or a quiet moment alone, this quaint garden space offers our clients the perfect ambiance to pause and reflect on life’s special treasures.
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Bell Rock Hideaway at Kinkell Byre was designed as a warm, welcoming and beautifully considered guest lodge for the St Andrews wedding venue. The brief was to create a relaxed yet elevated retreat that would feel comfortable, memorable and practical for guests, while still reflecting the character of its coastal setting and the rustic charm of Kinkell Byre.
The design brings together natural textures, rich grounding tones and carefully layered details to create a boutique experience. In the open-plan kitchen, living and dining space, warm timber, garnet-toned cabinetry, soft stone flooring and relaxed woven textures create a calm and inviting backdrop. Deep red upholstery, blue armchairs, natural rugs, rustic timber furniture and generous planting add depth, warmth and on brand personality.
The bedrooms were designed to feel restful and quietly luxurious, with soft neutral textiles, textured curtains, warm timber pieces, rattan lighting and subtle red accents. In the twin bedroom, a painted shiplap headboard wall creates a strong focal point, adding character and definition while keeping the overall scheme calm and welcoming.
The result is a timeless, comfortable and atmospheric hideaway that balances practicality with thoughtful design. A space created for gathering, relaxing and enjoying the beauty of its St Andrews setting.

Complete Basement Transformation by Expert Remodeling Contractor in Doylestown, PA
Renovating a basement is exciting, especially when you have a clear vision of a versatile space that fits your lifestyle. We are a basement remodeling contractor in Doylestown, PA.
We are a contractor in Doylestown, PA specializing in basement remodeling. Our most recent project involved transforming a plain basement into a stunning living space. The homeowners can now enjoy this beautiful area for many years to come.
The Initial Phase: Design and Planning
Every successful remodel begins with a well-thought-out plan. Our team started by stripping the basement down to its basic structure, preparing to build it back up from scratch. We designed the layout to maximize the space for its new purposes. These purposes include a fun entertainment area, a peaceful bathroom, and an energizing gym.
Upgrading the Essentials: Installation of Core Systems
The next step was to ensure the basement was ready to support the modern amenities we planned to install:
We created a strong network system for seamless home entertainment and communication in the bar and gym areas.
Plumbing: With the addition of a full bathroom and a bar, new plumbing was essential. Our experts installed a system that promised both efficiency and reliability.
We installed new electrical and HVAC systems in the basement. We installed these systems to control the temperature and create a comfortable environment. The purpose of these systems was to provide a comfortable environment for the gym and bar.
The Build-Out: Constructing the Space
With the infrastructure in place, our focus shifted to constructing the main features:
The bar is the main attraction in the entertainment area. The design aims to look good and serve a purpose, showcasing a stylish counter that is perfect for parties and special occasions.
We built a full bathroom in the basement to provide convenience and comfort for anyone using the space.
We created a modern gym for fitness lovers at home, providing everything needed for various exercise equipment.
Finishing Touches: Aesthetics and Functionality
As we neared completion, our attention turned to the details that would make the space truly shine:
We added special lights to improve the atmosphere, with bright lights for the gym and softer lights for the bar.
Using good materials and finishes, we made the basement strong and aesthetically pleasing. We made these choices to match the homeowners’ style and the purpose of each area.
The Final Reveal: A Basement Built for Enjoyment
The culmination of our efforts was a beautifully remodeled basement that promised endless hours of enjoyment. The new bar, bathroom, and gym areas enhanced the space. They transformed it from a simple basement into a central place for activity and relaxation.
Are you inspired to revitalize your own basement space? As your local basement remodeling contractor in Doylestown, PA, we’re ready to turn your vision into reality. Contact us to begin your home’s transformation today.

This 1910 West Highlands home was so compartmentalized that you couldn't help to notice you were constantly entering a new room every 8-10 feet. There was also a 500 SF addition put on the back of the home to accommodate a living room, 3/4 bath, laundry room and back foyer - 350 SF of that was for the living room. Needless to say, the house needed to be gutted and replanned.
Kitchen+Dining+Laundry-Like most of these early 1900's homes, the kitchen was not the heartbeat of the home like they are today. This kitchen was tucked away in the back and smaller than any other social rooms in the house. We knocked out the walls of the dining room to expand and created an open floor plan suitable for any type of gathering. As a nod to the history of the home, we used butcherblock for all the countertops and shelving which was accented by tones of brass, dusty blues and light-warm greys. This room had no storage before so creating ample storage and a variety of storage types was a critical ask for the client. One of my favorite details is the blue crown that draws from one end of the space to the other, accenting a ceiling that was otherwise forgotten.
Primary Bath-This did not exist prior to the remodel and the client wanted a more neutral space with strong visual details. We split the walls in half with a datum line that transitions from penny gap molding to the tile in the shower. To provide some more visual drama, we did a chevron tile arrangement on the floor, gridded the shower enclosure for some deep contrast an array of brass and quartz to elevate the finishes.
Powder Bath-This is always a fun place to let your vision get out of the box a bit. All the elements were familiar to the space but modernized and more playful. The floor has a wood look tile in a herringbone arrangement, a navy vanity, gold fixtures that are all servants to the star of the room - the blue and white deco wall tile behind the vanity.
Full Bath-This was a quirky little bathroom that you'd always keep the door closed when guests are over. Now we have brought the blue tones into the space and accented it with bronze fixtures and a playful southwestern floor tile.
Living Room & Office-This room was too big for its own good and now serves multiple purposes. We condensed the space to provide a living area for the whole family plus other guests and left enough room to explain the space with floor cushions. The office was a bonus to the project as it provided privacy to a room that otherwise had none before.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

This 1950’s mid century ranch had good bones, but was not all that it could be - especially for a family of four. The entrance, bathrooms and mudroom lacked storage space and felt dark and dingy.
The main bathroom was transformed back to its original charm with modern updates by moving the tub underneath the window, adding in a double vanity and a built-in laundry hamper and shelves. Casework used satin nickel hardware, handmade tile, and a custom oak vanity with finger pulls instead of hardware to create a neutral, clean bathroom that is still inviting and relaxing.
The entry reflects this natural warmth with a custom built-in bench and subtle marbled wallpaper. The combined laundry, mudroom and boy's bath feature an extremely durable watery blue cement tile and more custom oak built-in pieces. Overall, this renovation created a more functional space with a neutral but warm palette and minimalistic details.
Interior Design: Casework
General Contractor: Raven Builders
Photography: George Barberis
Press: Rebecca Atwood, Rue Magazine
On the Blog: SW Ranch Master Bath Before & After

This brownstone renovation was a full gut project in every sense of the word. On top of installing new floors, a kitchen and bath renovation, and all the typical restoration and refinishing involved in a brownstone built in 1899, we also completely updated the exterior, constructed a balcony that was not originally there, and converted the space from a single-family home into an an owner’s triplex. A newly separated studio rental on the garden level offers the opportunity for supplemental income, an uncommon and welcome addition to a New York brownstone.
A TRANSITIONAL GEM
The result is a two-family brownstone that perfectly combines classic townhouse living with today’s modern needs, including SmartHome technology that we installed to control Bluetooth speakers, Nest thermostats, and the security system.
The overall aesthetic goal was to pay homage to the historical periods the brownstone has lived through in a cohesive way that is the hallmark of modern transitional style.
In the kitchen, white Shaker-style cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and marble rather than quartz countertops bring a classically upscale sensibility. To modernize the space further, we opened up the back wall to create floor-to-ceiling windows that are also doors, opening up into the newly built balcony.
TIMELY TOUCHES
This brownstone renovation included many quintessential elements, such as millwork like the ceiling medallions. We restored some and custom built others, perfectly recreating their original appearance.
The heated master bathroom is now serene, with a walk-in shower featuring a subtly modern linear drain. A herringbone Carrera marble tiled floor and marble slab sink complete the scene. In the powder room, we embraced a contemporary look by pairing dark hexagonal floors with light chevron tiles, accented with dramatic navy blue wallpaper. With its clear-cut 1920s-style, we selected the wall sconce to reference one of the brownstone’s earlier eras.
DESIGN DETAILS
Natural oak herringbone floors we installed throughout the entire home bring a modern yet warm touch. We restored the wood-burning marble fireplace, which is fully functioning. An elegant staircase with a custom-crafted black wooden banister and white balusters winds up and down alongside a real brick interior wall that we restored and refinished.
In this brownstone renovation, we were also able to create ceiling height, an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing side benefit. When working on the joists and beams to level out the floors (a common issue in pre-war renovations) we added ceiling height in the main parlor floor by taking the second floor and raising the ceiling an entire foot. The end result is a main floor with stunning 9-foot ceilings.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS
- Solid natural oak herringbone floors throughout
- A fully restored, refinished, and functioning wood burning fireplace with a marble mantle
- Complete exterior renovation of the facade, cornices, windows, mouldings, and even the ironwork, including the railings leading up to the stoop and those facing the street
- A brand new central air and heating system with uniquely modern vents – look above the couch in the living room with the fuzzy rug and large painting
Considering a brownstone renovation? Contact us today! We specialize in brownstone renovations in New York as well as all pre-war apartments. When you work with a design-and-build firm like Gallery to renovate your brownstone, you get the full range of our expertise in working with all the finest details and pre-war architectural elements of these classic New York spaces. We also handle every step of the process, from filing permits and organizing schedules to sourcing custom pieces and building entirely new rooms (or even balconies). Call us for a free initial consultation when you’re ready.

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

Kitchen open to Family Room, Home Office, and Breakfast Area
Inspiration for a mid-century modern u-shaped terrazzo floor, white floor and shiplap ceiling open concept kitchen remodel in San Francisco with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, quartz backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops
Inspiration for a mid-century modern u-shaped terrazzo floor, white floor and shiplap ceiling open concept kitchen remodel in San Francisco with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, quartz backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

The modern architecture in this mostly one-story plan takes advantage of the large site and creates strong connections to the outdoors with large expanses of glass interspersed with limestone masses.
© Matthew Millman

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

The existing U-shaped kitchen was tucked away in a small corner while the dining table was swimming in a room much too large for its size. The client’s needs and the architecture of the home made it apparent that the perfect design solution for the home was to swap the spaces.
The homeowners entertain frequently and wanted the new layout to accommodate a lot of counter seating, a bar/buffet for serving hors d’oeuvres, an island with prep sink, and all new appliances. They had a strong preference that the hood be a focal point and wanted to go beyond a typical white color scheme even though they wanted white cabinets.
While moving the kitchen to the dining space gave us a generous amount of real estate to work with, two of the exterior walls are occupied with full-height glass creating a challenge how best to fulfill their wish list. We used one available wall for the needed tall appliances, taking advantage of its height to create the hood as a focal point. We opted for both a peninsula and island instead of one large island in order to maximize the seating requirements and create a barrier when entertaining so guests do not flow directly into the work area of the kitchen. This also made it possible to add a second sink as requested. Lastly, the peninsula sets up a well-defined path to the new dining room without feeling like you are walking through the kitchen. We used the remaining fourth wall for the bar/buffet.
Black cabinetry adds strong contrast in several areas of the new kitchen. Wire mesh wall cabinet doors at the bar and gold accents on the hardware, light fixtures, faucets and furniture add further drama to the concept. The focal point is definitely the black hood, looking both dramatic and cohesive at the same time.

Inspiration for a mid-sized farmhouse l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Philadelphia with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

The client’s brief was to create a space reminiscent of their beloved downtown Chicago industrial loft, in a rural farm setting, while incorporating their unique collection of vintage and architectural salvage. The result is a custom designed space that blends life on the farm with an industrial sensibility.
The new house is located on approximately the same footprint as the original farm house on the property. Barely visible from the road due to the protection of conifer trees and a long driveway, the house sits on the edge of a field with views of the neighbouring 60 acre farm and creek that runs along the length of the property.
The main level open living space is conceived as a transparent social hub for viewing the landscape. Large sliding glass doors create strong visual connections with an adjacent barn on one end and a mature black walnut tree on the other.
The house is situated to optimize views, while at the same time protecting occupants from blazing summer sun and stiff winter winds. The wall to wall sliding doors on the south side of the main living space provide expansive views to the creek, and allow for breezes to flow throughout. The wrap around aluminum louvered sun shade tempers the sun.
The subdued exterior material palette is defined by horizontal wood siding, standing seam metal roofing and large format polished concrete blocks.
The interiors were driven by the owners’ desire to have a home that would properly feature their unique vintage collection, and yet have a modern open layout. Polished concrete floors and steel beams on the main level set the industrial tone and are paired with a stainless steel island counter top, backsplash and industrial range hood in the kitchen. An old drinking fountain is built-in to the mudroom millwork, carefully restored bi-parting doors frame the library entrance, and a vibrant antique stained glass panel is set into the foyer wall allowing diffused coloured light to spill into the hallway. Upstairs, refurbished claw foot tubs are situated to view the landscape.
The double height library with mezzanine serves as a prominent feature and quiet retreat for the residents. The white oak millwork exquisitely displays the homeowners’ vast collection of books and manuscripts. The material palette is complemented by steel counter tops, stainless steel ladder hardware and matte black metal mezzanine guards. The stairs carry the same language, with white oak open risers and stainless steel woven wire mesh panels set into a matte black steel frame.
The overall effect is a truly sublime blend of an industrial modern aesthetic punctuated by personal elements of the owners’ storied life.
Photography: James Brittain

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

An original turn-of-the-century Craftsman home had lost it original charm in the kitchen and bathroom, both renovated in the 1980s. The clients desired to restore the original look, while still giving the spaces an updated feel. Both rooms were gutted and new materials, fittings and appliances were installed, creating a strong reference to the history of the home, while still moving the house into the 21st century.
Photos by Melissa McCafferty

This modern house provides California-style indoor-outdoor living, creating strong connections to the outdoors with large expanses of glass interspersed with limestone masses.
© Matthew Millman

Our clients wish list was fairly simple: a small, traditional pool with a raised spa. They wanted enough deck space for light entertaining around the pool, but due to their generous covered veranda, they did not require much more than that. Oh--and a little yard space for the dog!
The entire design was really driven by a very strong central sight line through the house, all the way from the front door. Using this as the center-line for the pool, we pushed the pool as far toward the rear property line as code would allow and then created the main focal feature of the project: a seven-foot-tall limestone and cast stone wall, with a laser-cut steel sculpture, created the project designer. The cast stone columns and center arch echo the architecture of the home and create the perfect backdrop for the raised spa. The same wrought-iron gas lanterns used at the front entry of the home are repeated on columns here.
The color palette is subtle and classic, much like the interior of the home and the decor within the grand veranda directly adjacent the pool. 18"x30" blocks of limestone were used to create the wall at the rear of the property, and harmonizing with the veneer on the home. The pool is finished with Pennsylvania Premier coping, with a bull-nosed edge, shadowed by a 2" band of black granite. The surrounding decks are Travertine pavers in a 'Versailles' pattern, bordered by a 12" band of Pennsylvania stone. The pool utilizes three different glass tiles for a highly customized style. The glass mosaic on the wet deck and in the spa is a custom blend created by the homeowner and the designer. A grey/green Diamondbrite interior finish completes the soft hues that make this project aesthetically soothing to the eye.
The homeowner had been through 4 different home builders during the construction of their dream home. Understandably, when it came to the pool, they wanted to be certain they didn't go through the same difficulties and sought out a company with the reputation and the creativity that would exceed their expectations. After seeing our detailed design study for their admittedly "compact space", they knew they had found just the right company.
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