It doesn’t always require a major reconfiguration to accomplish a major transformation. That was certainly the case with this gorgeous kitchen remodel! Although these homeowners were eager for some significant improvements, there were a few things that were still working for them. Collaborating with their designer, they elected to stick with the original footprint of the kitchen, keep their red oak flooring, and integrate the original quaint brick backsplash. So how did we create such a dramatically different space while preserving such foundational elements? There were a few key revisions that made all the difference… Most notably, we brought the light! What a major impact this made…from floor to ceiling! To start, refinishing the dark hardwood floors restored their brilliance and lightened them considerably. The warm white custom cabinetry and light-toned quartz countertops gave this kitchen an updated look that is transformational. Raising the dropped ceiling, we replaced the florescent lighting with recessed lights and added modern pendant lights over the peninsula. We painted the wood trim and window casings and exchanged the aging wood windows for white vinyl windows. Collectively, these design choices give the impression of a more spacious kitchen, but it remains within the existing footprint. As always, careful consideration was given to the cabinet design to maximize the space and functionality of this kitchen. Raising the ceiling allowed for taller upper cabinets. The full-height pantry now provides generous storage for food and small appliances, and even houses their microwave oven. The island’s built-in bookcase is the ideal spot to keep cookbooks accessible for quick referencing. Although their former cabinetry did have a fixed wine rack, the new design makes this corner a lovely focal feature—a proper wine bar in our opinion. The matte black cabinet hardware is simple and current, contrasting beautifully with the white cabinetry, giving it that updated farmhouse appeal.

Linda Nielsen of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Millsboro, DE, partnered with Joyce G Designs to create a stunning classic-style kitchen. The design showcases Merillat Masterpiece cabinets. The wall cabinets feature the Sawyer door style in a Moonshine finish, while the island and wet bar display a Translucent Monument Gray finish. Appliances, countertops, and tile were sourced separately. Joyce, having worked with Linda on previous kitchen projects, was thrilled to collaborate on her own downsized kitchen. "We faced the challenge of working around support columns without disrupting the countertop and seating. Although bar-height islands are not currently trending, I still prefer the separation of the eating area. We achieved a functional work area that keeps the mess away and fits nicely between the columns." "Linda suggested using Masterpiece cabinets. I love the finishes! The stepstool cabinet is my favorite, followed by the large spice cabinets. Seeing the showroom samples was helpful. Linda provided great suggestions and was patient with design changes. I am delighted with my kitchen and how it accommodates entertaining my big Italian family!" According to Linda, the working relationship with Joyce is enjoyable, fostering a free exchange of ideas. "Her kitchen had to meet her needs and the architectural challenges. The mix of paint and specialty-stained cabinets is now the home's focal point." Photos courtesy of Yeatman Photography.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars. __________ Le projet consistait à ouvrir le plafond du rez-de-chaussée d'un duplex des années 1930 et à remplacer la finition de plâtre par un système de plafond de gypse. Le câblage électrique en aluminium a également été remplacé pour se conformer aux normes en vigueur, et l'éclairage existant a été remplacé par de nouveaux luminaires encastrés dans toutes les pièces. Une fois les plafonds ouverts, un système d'isolation acoustique et insonorisant a été installé pour absorber les bruits intérieurs du deuxième étage du duplex. Le système d'insonorisation consiste en une isolation en laine soufflée, rembourrée d'une fine couche d'air entre elle et la finition du plafond de gypse, ainsi que l'installation de barres résilientes.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars. __________ Le projet consistait à ouvrir le plafond du rez-de-chaussée d'un duplex des années 1930 et à remplacer la finition de plâtre par un système de plafond de gypse. Le câblage électrique en aluminium a également été remplacé pour se conformer aux normes en vigueur, et l'éclairage existant a été remplacé par de nouveaux luminaires encastrés dans toutes les pièces. Une fois les plafonds ouverts, un système d'isolation acoustique et insonorisant a été installé pour absorber les bruits intérieurs du deuxième étage du duplex. Le système d'insonorisation consiste en une isolation en laine soufflée, rembourrée d'une fine couche d'air entre elle et la finition du plafond de gypse, ainsi que l'installation de barres résilientes.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars. __________ Le projet consistait à ouvrir le plafond du rez-de-chaussée d'un duplex des années 1930 et à remplacer la finition de plâtre par un système de plafond de gypse. Le câblage électrique en aluminium a également été remplacé pour se conformer aux normes en vigueur, et l'éclairage existant a été remplacé par de nouveaux luminaires encastrés dans toutes les pièces. Une fois les plafonds ouverts, un système d'isolation acoustique et insonorisant a été installé pour absorber les bruits intérieurs du deuxième étage du duplex. Le système d'insonorisation consiste en une isolation en laine soufflée, rembourrée d'une fine couche d'air entre elle et la finition du plafond de gypse, ainsi que l'installation de barres résilientes.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars.

The project involved opening the ceiling on the ground floor of a 1930s duplex and replacing the plaster finish with a gypsum ceiling system. Aluminum electrical wiring was also replaced to conform to current standards, and the existing lighting was exchanged for new pot lights in all rooms. Once the ceilings were opened, an acoustic, soundproofing insulation system was installed to absorb interior noise from the second floor of the duplex. The soundproofing system consists of blown wool insulation, padded with a thin layer of air between it and the gypsum ceiling finish, along with the installation of resilient bars.

Linda Nielsen of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Millsboro, DE, partnered with Joyce G Designs to create a stunning classic-style kitchen. The design showcases Merillat Masterpiece cabinets. The wall cabinets feature the Sawyer door style in a Moonshine finish, while the island and wet bar display a Translucent Monument Gray finish. Appliances, countertops, and tile were sourced separately. Joyce, having worked with Linda on previous kitchen projects, was thrilled to collaborate on her own downsized kitchen. "We faced the challenge of working around support columns without disrupting the countertop and seating. Although bar-height islands are not currently trending, I still prefer the separation of the eating area. We achieved a functional work area that keeps the mess away and fits nicely between the columns." "Linda suggested using Masterpiece cabinets. I love the finishes! The stepstool cabinet is my favorite, followed by the large spice cabinets. Seeing the showroom samples was helpful. Linda provided great suggestions and was patient with design changes. I am delighted with my kitchen and how it accommodates entertaining my big Italian family!" According to Linda, the working relationship with Joyce is enjoyable, fostering a free exchange of ideas. "Her kitchen had to meet her needs and the architectural challenges. The mix of paint and specialty-stained cabinets is now the home's focal point." Photos courtesy of Yeatman Photography.

It is officially that time of year when things look a little gloomy and we must rely on container plantings and decor to keep spaces, like entryways, warm and inviting. We are currently exchanging mums, chilly peppers, and gourds for evergreens, boughs of pine and holly, and lights! You can count on CaliperCare™ year-round to keep your containers brimming with life, color, and seasonal/holiday interest! Contact us today for fresh ideas and inspiration! Proudly serving Central New Jersey for over 35 years! 908.904.9446 #caliperfarms #calipercare #containergardening #seasonalinterest #color #landscaping #hardscaping #gardening #montgomerynj #bellemeadnj #princetonnj #hopewellnj #penningtonnj #skillmannj #lawrencevillenj

Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.