Search results for "Creative prepare" in Home Design Ideas
ZeroEnergy DesignThis renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income.
DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic.
RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income.
ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them.
URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances.
OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.
Eric Roth Photo
ZeroEnergy DesignThis renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income.
DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic.
RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income.
ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them.
URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances.
OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.
Eric Roth Photo
Find the right local pro for your project
MainStreet Design BuildWorking within the kitchen’s original footprint, our creative solution involved updating the island to a larger rectangle shape with more surface area for food prep and dining space. As well as becoming a stunning statement piece with a gorgeous 3” mitered Trillium top, the island now functions as an ideal space for the homeowners and their two young kids to be seated at the island while mom and dad prepare their gourmet meals. It also incorporates an oversized undermount stainless steel sink with a Cove dishwasher and Wolf microwave drawer.
180 degrees from the island sink finds you within easy reach of a 24” column Subzero freezer and 30” column Subzero refrigerator, which are fully integrated next to the Wolf convection wall and steam ovens, flush-mounted into the European cabinetry. The new, wider countertop surrounding the 36” Wolf pro-range is completely unencumbered with the removal of the tall cabinets on the wall. A striking copper hood became a spectacular focal point in its place.
Media Rooms IncPreparing molding with multiple layers of gold metallic paint for an Art Deco home theater.
Our company is unique in that we actually design and build cabinets and theater interiors in-house. We do not subcontract these services out to others. We take a highly creative approach when designing custom cabinetry. We are extremely sensitive to the leading role that media and entertainment centers play in today’s interior design.
Every facet of each cabinet is evaluated for function and appearance. First, we look at how the furniture will blend with the existing environment. We build any style of furniture from traditional to contemporary and in all cases strive for harmony in the design. Secondly, we evaluate how the client will use the cabinetry, such as, where is the best TV viewing angle, component accessibility and how the size, shape and location will affect other elements in the room.
In addition to the artistic beauty of our cabinetry, good design is the key element to well built, long-lasting and user-friendly furniture crafted specifically for each customer’s lifestyle. We only use premium-grade veneered plywoods and hardwood, and premium quality hardware.
All Cabinets, Theater Interiors and Electronic Installations shown were Designed, Built and Installed by Media Rooms Inc.
Deep River PartnersPlaying to the roots of the design, marble is a fixture of European styling. The main bathroom called for that approach through marble flooring, countertops, and shower tile. To achieve a subtle modernization with an old-world feel, the styling is softened with clean, architectural features and casework that delivers a blank canvas. In contrast, the creative use of ceiling treatments, light fixtures and tile stands out. The color palette is simple and in turn allows tile patterning to be a prominent focal point. This design called for this level of boldness to achieve the modern feel in a traditional home. An imaginative layout of the space supports the routines to prepare for the day. Connection from the bedroom to laundry and family foyer make an unhindered path to come and go with ease. Large windows with transoms and darkened mullions carry the floor pattern up framing the outdoor view that flushes the room with natural light. Drapery panels soften the tub area and add a layer of pattern to the room, while a hidden automatic shade provides privacy when required. Overall, the transitional background emanates a formal undertone that is relaxed with a comfortable elegance suitable to the client’s style.
McClure TablesOur walnut serving platter features an extra thick, reversible cutting surface that makes this platter perfect for preparing and serving your favorite appetizers, snacks, hours d'oeuvres, side dishes, and entrees. Made by hand in our Grand Rapids, MI factory using edge grain construction, our walnut serving platter is naturally suited for everyday use or entertaining. The edge grain construction makes the platter durable yet light enough to easily move around the kitchen. It also prevents unattractive butt ends or finger joints and helps ensure a consistent color throughout the platter. Show off your creative side by serving fruits and cheeses, veggies and dip, tortilla chips and salsa, or crackers and your favorite deli meats on top of our walnut serving platter to create a unique, eye-catching display that you're guest will love.
Specifications/Features:
Measures 18" x 24"
1" Thick
Two easy-to-grip handles
Great alternative to plastic bread boards
Easier on your knives
Won't harbor bacteria
Hand wash only
Oil regularly for best results
Anthill StudioVancouver's Telus World of Science approached us for partnership in realizing their vision of a highly engaging learn-through-play space, The Wonder Gallery. Their thorough preparation for this new area - for children in their budding developmental years (0-5yrs) - meant that special and varied requirements were critical in successfully fulfilling their design mandate. Collaboration with a diverse roster of professionals helped us to achieve this.
The project's intentions and safety considerations underpinned our process in realizing the beautifully interactive Wonder Gallery. To ensure safe, tactile play, we considered specifics such as corner and surface treatments, material durability and compatibility, and hygiene. Colourful inlays, solid hardwoods, and lasting non-toxic and easily repairable finishes were some strategies we implemented to make this a project with our hallmark Anthill characteristics.
This complex space debuted in the Spring of 2017 to great success. Caregivers, kids, and staff alike have provided resoundingly positive feedback. We were left enthusiastic for future collaborations with the wonderfully creative Science World team.
McClure TablesOur walnut serving platter features an extra thick, reversible cutting surface that makes this platter perfect for preparing and serving your favorite appetizers, snacks, hours d'oeuvres, side dishes, and entrees. Made by hand in our Grand Rapids, MI factory using edge grain construction, our walnut serving platter is naturally suited for everyday use or entertaining. The edge grain construction makes the platter durable yet light enough to easily move around the kitchen. It also prevents unattractive butt ends or finger joints and helps ensure a consistent color throughout the platter. Show off your creative side by serving fruits and cheeses, veggies and dip, tortilla chips and salsa, or crackers and your favorite deli meats on top of our walnut serving platter to create a unique, eye-catching display that you're guest will love.
Specifications/Features:
Measures 18" x 24"
1" Thick
Two easy-to-grip handles
Great alternative to plastic bread boards
Easier on your knives
Won't harbor bacteria
Hand wash only
Oil regularly for best results
Stubing LLCStep into a harmonious blend of modern sophistication and timeless warmth with our custom white and brown kitchen cabinets. Designed to bring together the crisp, clean aesthetics of white cabinetry with the rich, earthy tones of brown accents, this kitchen is a testament to both style and functionality.
The main feature of this custom kitchen is the contrast between the white and brown cabinets, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere
Each cabinet is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Soft-close hinges and drawer glides provide a quiet and smooth operation, enhancing the overall user experience.
The countertops, often adorned in white quartz with subtle veining, offer a luxurious surface for food preparation and entertaining. This choice complements the white cabinetry beautifully while providing a durable and easy-to-maintain surface.
Bronze hardware accents the cabinetry, adding a touch of modern flair and functionality. Integrated lighting under the upper cabinets illuminates the workspace, enhancing visibility and creating a warm ambiance.
Whether you're cooking a family meal or entertaining guests, our custom white and brown kitchen cabinets combine elegance with practicality, offering a space where style meets functionality effortlessly. Embrace the timeless appeal and versatility of this design, creating a kitchen that not only inspires culinary creativity but also becomes the heart of your home.
Claremont Rug CompanyInterplay Between Two Exceptional Caucasian Karachov Kazak Rugs Becomes the Unforgettable Focus of a Collector’s Sitting Room
Two rugs offering rare renditions of the famed Caucasian “Karachov Kazak” style are the essential foundation for this traditional sitting room, powerfully elevating the discourse of this luxurious and highly inviting conversation space. Spellbinding abrash and freewheeling creativity of archetypal tribal forms of the smaller Karachov in the passageway prepare the eye for the even more intricate graphic imagery of the larger, mid-19th century Karachov that anchors the sitting area. This rug’s traditional octagonal reserve provides the central orientation for the seating arrangement of comfortable leather chairs, while effortlessly enhancing the profusion of textures, colors, and finishes of the surrounding objets d’art. Cut glass, rose blooms, Dutch and Chinese porcelain, inlaid Chinoiserie furniture and warm hardwood paneling become harmonious supporting themes, with each piece in the owner’s collection given the opportunity to speak eloquently.
Read more: https://www.pinterest.com/claremontrug/tabriz-rugs-antique-northwest-persian-rug-type/
Creative Design Landscapes**Green Giant Privacy Installation – Estate-Scale Screening**
This project focused on creating immediate, full-scale privacy for a large residential property through the installation of over 400 Green Giant arborvitae. The objective was to establish a defined boundary and visual enclosure without compromising the openness or natural character of the landscape.
The layout was carefully planned to follow the length of the drive, framing the approach to the home while maintaining symmetry and consistency. Trees were spaced and aligned with precision to ensure long-term uniform growth, allowing the screen to mature into a dense, continuous barrier.
Site preparation played a critical role in the success of the installation. The planting areas were properly graded and amended to support healthy root development, with irrigation integrated to promote establishment and sustained growth. This ensures the trees not only thrive but maintain their structure and density over time.
Green Giant arborvitae were selected for their reliability, fast growth rate, and ability to provide year-round coverage. Their upright form allows for effective screening without overwhelming the space, making them ideal for large properties requiring both privacy and scale.
Bloomington Carpet OneBeautiful custom runner to match the unique measurements of this staircase.
Small wooden curved staircase photo in Minneapolis with wooden risers
Small wooden curved staircase photo in Minneapolis with wooden risers
SprigA bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits.
What Is a Bento Box?
A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation.
Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes
In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making.
Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box
One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of:
40–50% carbohydrates
30–40% vegetables
20–30% protein
This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food.
Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses
Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for:
Office lunches
School meals
Travel and picnics
Fitness and meal-prep routines
With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste.
Bento Boxes in Everyday Life
Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized.
Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today
The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable.
Conclusion
A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.
Michael Nash Design, Build & HomesNARI CAPITAL COTY, HONORABLE MENTION AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN $50,000 TO $100,000
The owners of this Mount Vernon home purchased it with plans to remodel the kitchen. The original space was tired, dark and disorganized. A peninsula separated the kitchen from the breakfast area and the adjacent sunroom was only accessed via a single door. The back pantry was poorly designed and there was no logic to the kitchen’s work space.
The first step in this stunning transformation involved replacing the original peninsula with a large central island. Built using espresso stained furniture-quality cabinets with icon legs, open bottoms and exotic dark granite countertops, all kitchen traffic now flows around the island.
The outside wall of the kitchen, featuring a 48” Thermador range, stainless steel range hood and glass tile backsplash, is the focal point of the new space. A stainless steel farm-style sink sits beneath one of two large windows that provide lots of natural light into the room. To the right, sits a 48” Sub Zero refrigerator/freezer.
The wall adjacent to the family room was never used properly. Now it is home to two tall pantries, double ovens and a microwave. Creative pass through arches let the homeowner attend to guests while preparing food in the kitchen. The butler area adjacent to the dining room is filled with glass front cabinetry and additional cabinetry for extra storage.
The kitchen is now part of an open concept design flowing from kitchen to dining room to sun room. By replacing a bearing wall with a structural header, traffic can flow from one room to the next making it brighter and more conducive to entertaining.
More spacious than ever, this new kitchen is the hub of the home for this couple who love to cook and entertain.
Luxe Custom HomesThis stunning kitchen masterfully blends farmhouse warmth with modern sophistication, creating an inviting and highly functional space perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
Key design features include:
Vaulted ceiling with exposed wood beams, giving the room a dramatic architectural feel and natural warmth.
White custom cabinetry, paired with a rich, dark wood island, striking a balance between bright and grounded color tones.
A large kitchen island that serves as both a prep workspace and a casual dining area, with seating for family and guests.
Designer pendant lighting overhead, which adds sculptural flair while illuminating the space beautifully.
Hardwood flooring throughout, enhancing continuity and elegance.
Expansive windows that bring in natural light, emphasizing the open-concept layout and offering views into adjoining living areas.
From a lifestyle standpoint, this kitchen is designed to be the heart of the home — a place where culinary creativity meets relaxed gathering. Whether you’re preparing a gourmet meal or entertaining friends over drinks, this space feels timeless yet contemporary.
Luxe Custom HomesThis stunning kitchen masterfully blends farmhouse warmth with modern sophistication, creating an inviting and highly functional space perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
Key design features include:
Vaulted ceiling with exposed wood beams, giving the room a dramatic architectural feel and natural warmth.
White custom cabinetry, paired with a rich, dark wood island, striking a balance between bright and grounded color tones.
A large kitchen island that serves as both a prep workspace and a casual dining area, with seating for family and guests.
Designer pendant lighting overhead, which adds sculptural flair while illuminating the space beautifully.
Hardwood flooring throughout, enhancing continuity and elegance.
Expansive windows that bring in natural light, emphasizing the open-concept layout and offering views into adjoining living areas.
From a lifestyle standpoint, this kitchen is designed to be the heart of the home — a place where culinary creativity meets relaxed gathering. Whether you’re preparing a gourmet meal or entertaining friends over drinks, this space feels timeless yet contemporary.
DOOR COUNTY INTERIORS & DESIGNThis project involves a complete remodel of a condo located in Door County, Wisconsin. The condo, which is situated in the picturesque waterfront community of Egg Harbor, will be transformed into a modern and functional living space. The goal of the remodel is to create a comfortable and inviting environment that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the area.
The scope of the project includes a complete gutting of the existing space and the installation of all new finishes and fixtures. The following is a breakdown of the work that was completed:
Demolition: The existing flooring, walls, and ceilings will be removed to prepare for the new construction.
Flooring: New hardwood flooring will be installed throughout the main living areas and bedrooms.
Walls and Ceilings: The walls and ceilings will be refinished and painted with a fresh coat of paint.
Lighting: A new lighting plan will be implemented to improve functionality and aesthetics.
Kitchen: The kitchen will be completely redesigned and remodeled with new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances.
Bathrooms: The bathrooms will be remodeled with new tile, vanities, and fixtures.
Deck: The existing deck will be refinished and new outdoor furniture will be added.
Windows and Doors: New windows and doors will be installed to improve energy efficiency and to enhance the overall aesthetic of the condo.
The project will be managed by a team of experienced contractors who will work closely with the client to ensure that all work is completed to the highest standards of quality and that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
Upon completion, the condo will be a beautiful and functional living space that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of Door County. The client will be able to enjoy their new condo in style and comfort, and will have a space that is truly their own.
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