Jackie and Sean loved the Algonquin neighborhood they lived in with the peaceful neighborhood and the close proximity to work and school. What they didn’t love was how outdated their home had become. With a cramped kitchen and an unused dining room, they decided a remodel was the perfect solution to their problem. They would be able to continue to live in the area they loved, while at the same time they could have the dream home they envisioned. After a thorough search, Jackie came across Advance Design Studio. She was impressed by all of the positive reviews she saw on the internet and saw herself identifying with all of the project stories she saw on the website. Once they met with designer Scott Christensen and owner Todd Jurs, they knew Advance Design was the right company to make their dreams a reality. The project consisted of four main areas: the kitchen/dining/powder room, the laundry room, the master bathroom, and the kid’s bathroom. They wanted to expand the kitchen into the seldom used dining room and add a large island for hosting parties and family gatherings. They also wanted new hardwood flooring throughout the first level. The laundry room needed to be more functional, and all three bathrooms were in dire need of updating. The closed off kitchen was opened up to create a sweeping space between the new eating area and the much larger kitchen. A handsome dry bar complete with a beverage refrigerator and lighted glass door cabinetry makes an elegant transition across from a peninsula area filled with storage. An additional decorative cabinet lighting up elegant dishware through the mullioned glass sits directly across from the drybar. An expansive island was critical to the kitchen plans. Jackie, Sean and Scott worked closely together to create just the right details for their design. They wanted the island to be functional in addition to being the centerpiece of the room. Added storage for the kid’s school supplies was hidden behind cabinet doors so the children could do their schoolwork right at the island, and a microwave drawer glides open with the touch of a finger hidden inconspicuously within the island space. The easy to care for Cambria Britannica Quartz island top with its sweeping grey and white marble look perched atop hand-carved Craftsman corbels was absolutely what they were hoping for, blending both beauty and function perfectly. Adding a nice contrast to the brightness of the quartz and the white cabinetry, Kodiak - Leather granite countertops were used to balance the light and dark tones of the space. Dura Supreme Classic White painted cabinets grace the perimeter, while Maple Poppy Seed stained cabinets with a beautiful soft grey woodgrain were used in the beverage center and island. The two tones compliment the large space balancing it out nicely creating interest and elegance with the simple Craftsman style full overlay doors. A deep warm Barnwood White Oak flooring was added throughout the lower level. The new floor brings additional contrast to the bright kitchen and provides unity with the now open floorplan as it rolls in to the foyer and family room. Final details like the show-stopping lunar like duo light fixtures complete the space and intermix expertly with crisscross details of the glass door mullions, the island bar seating and even accessories in the space. The small cluttered laundry room needed more space and more storage. With a busy family it seemed to overflow daily and did not have anywhere to hide the families “in and out stuff.” Scott designed the new space with a stackable washer and dryer and much more efficiently organized cabinetry. Doing laundry is now (almost!) a pleasure and keeping everyone’s “stuff” hidden, but readily accessible is now a snap. The master bath was not a place where the couple enjoyed spending time getting ready for their day. The tub almost never was used, so removing it made it possible to build an extra-large shower, replacing the small cramped cube of the previous shower they hated. Clean, horizontal lines softly draw your eye around the space with porcelain tile called Driftwood Sea spray. Full overlay cabinetry in a soft white vanity with double sinks makes getting ready for the day much more convenient for the busy couple. Long floor planks made of porcelain tile mimic real hardwood floors in a soft grey to compliment the shower, but with the ease and care of a tile surface. Cambrian Black Granite counters with a matte finish and under mount porcelain sinks with handsome brushed chrome hardware complete the handsome space. A real bonus in any master bath; a custom built in storage nook was tucked in the corner of the space for linens and heavenly storage. The kid’s bath was in sad shape because it was original to the house. To keep the budget in control, the tub which was in great condition was retained, but focus was on the new large brick style porcelain charcoal tile on the floor, crisp white new Craftsman style cabinetry with pretty furniture details on the corner base, a striking granite top with white under mount porcelain sinks and fresh hardware and faucets. Some beautiful soft grey wood mirrors to match mom and dads were custom sized and placed under new lighting, and 4 hooks were smartly arranged down the wall for kids’ towels. This couple was determined not to move, and made their house their dream home. Not only does their home function greatly now, but Jackie says, “When the neighbors come to visit, they’re asking if they can “steal” the design”! The added functionality, elegance, and open floor plan were exactly what this family needed in order to stay. Advance Design Studio, Joe Nowak

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This NE Minneapolis whole-level remodel started with the existing kitchen/dining area being cramped and a rear sunken entrance to the home that did not fit the family’s everyday needs. The homeowners also wanted an open floor plan with plenty of counter space, base cabinetry, natural light, and generous walking spaces for traffic flow for a busy family of 5. A mudroom was also key to allow for a daily drop spot for coats, shoes, and sports equipment. The sunken area in the kitchen was framed in to be level with the rest of the floor, and three walls were removed to create a flexible space for their current and future needs. Natural light drove the cabinet design and resulted in primarily base cabinets instead of a standard upper cabinet/base cabinet layout. Deep drawers, accessories, and tall storage replaced what would be wall cabinets to allow for the empty wall space to capture as much natural light as we could. The double sliding door and large window were important factors in maximizing light. The island and peninsula create a multi-functioning space for two prep areas, guests to sit, a homework/work spot, etc. Come see this project in person, September 29 – 30 on the 2018 Castle Home Tour!

This Mediterranean style kitchen offers a warmth that is achieve due to the attention to details. The under-the-counter dried herb display is perfect for the ultimate chef kitchen. Zinc counter tops, copper details on the hood backsplash and island offer a mix of surfaces from both a visual and a culinary perspective, Pot fills, and foot pedals were incorporated by the designer. Plus many eclectic touches like the hand carved, claw feet on the hammered copper farmhouse sink. What fun!

Entertaining in a bathroom never looked so good. Probably a thought that never crossed your mind, but a space as unique as this can do just that. The fusion of so many elements: an open concept shower, freestanding tub, washer/dryer organization, toilet room and urinal created an exciting spacial plan. Ultimately, the freestanding tub creates the first vantage point. This breathtaking view creates a calming effect and each angle pivoting off this point exceeds the next. Following the open concept shower, is the washer/dryer and storage closets which double as decor, incorporating mirror into their doors. The double vanity stands in front of a textured wood plank tile laid horizontally establishing a modern backdrop. Lastly, a rustic barn door separates a toilet and a urinal, an uncharacteristic residential choice that pairs well with beer, wings, and hockey.

Photo by Jody Dole This charming farmhouse sits atop a grassy hill overlooking a serene Connecticut River Estuary. The new design reformulated the first floor plan making it much more functional and visually exciting. It encompassed the reorganization of multiple spaces including the Mudroom, Kitchen, Dining Room, Family Room, Sun Room, Laundry, Bathroom, and Master Closet. The design also added, deleted, and relocated windows and French doors to greatly enhance exterior views, draw in more natural light, and seamlessly upgrade the articulation of exterior elevations. Improvements to the plumbing and mechanical systems were also made. The overall feeling is both sophisticated and yet very much down to earth. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Can a home be both rustic and contemporary at once? This Mountain Mid Century home answers “absolutely” with its cheerfully canted roofs and asymmetrical timber joinery detailing. Perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the eastern plains and evening city lights, this home playfully reinterprets elements of historic Colorado mine structures. Inside, the comfortably proportioned Great Room finds its warm rustic character in the traditionally detailed stone fireplace, while outside covered decks frame views in every direction.

PHOTOS: Mountain Home Photo CONTRACTOR: 3C Construction Main level living: 1455 sq ft Upper level Living: 1015 sq ft Guest Wing / Office: 520 sq ft Total Living: 2990 sq ft Studio Space: 1520 sq ft 2 Car Garage : 575 sq ft ​ General Contractor: 3C Construction: Steve Lee The client, a sculpture artist, and his wife came to J.P.A. only wanting a studio next to their home. During the design process it grew to having a living space above the studio, which grew to having a small house attached to the studio forming a compound. At this point it became clear to the client; the project was outgrowing the neighborhood. After re-evaluating the project, the live / work compound is currently sited in a natural protected nest with post card views of Mount Sopris & the Roaring Fork Valley. The courtyard compound consist of the central south facing piece being the studio flanked by a simple 2500 sq ft 2 bedroom, 2 story house one the west side, and a multi purpose guest wing /studio on the east side. The evolution of this compound came to include the desire to have the building blend into the surrounding landscape, and at the same time become the backdrop to create and display his sculpture. “Jess has been our architect on several projects over the past ten years. He is easy to work with, and his designs are interesting and thoughtful. He always carefully listens to our ideas and is able to create a plan that meets our needs both as individuals and as a family. We highly recommend Jess Pedersen Architecture”. - Client “As a general contractor, I can highly recommend Jess. His designs are very pleasing with a lot of thought put in to how they are lived in. He is a real team player, adding greatly to collaborative efforts and making the process smoother for all involved. Further, he gets information out on or ahead of schedule. Really been a pleasure working with Jess and hope to do more together in the future!” Steve Lee - 3C Construction