The gentleman's walk-in closet and dressing area feature natural wood shelving and cabinetry with a medium custom stain applied by master skilled artisans. Interior Architecture by Brian O'Keefe Architect, PC, with Interior Design by Marjorie Shushan. Featured in Architectural Digest. Photo by Liz Ordonoz.

Builder: Thompson Properties, Interior Designer: Allard & Roberts Interior Design, Cabinetry: Advance Cabinetry, Countertops: Mountain Marble & Granite, Lighting Fixtures: Lux Lighting and Allard & Roberts, Doors: Sun Mountain Door, Plumbing & Appliances: Ferguson, Door & Cabinet Hardware: Bella Hardware & Bath Photography: David Dietrich Photography Tile: Artistic Tile Area Rug: Togar rugs

Tom Harper
Example of a transitional multicolored tile and slate tile powder room design in Miami with a vessel sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets and gray countertops

This space is perfect for entertaining! When the owners originally moved in, this deck was not here. There were several steps down from the kitchen door, and the stone slabs were a toe-stubbing minefield. We added the deck and designed it perfectly for entertaining. Since we had several large pine trees removed from the property, we increased sun exposure creating a need for more shade. We had this awning custom made by PJ Canvas in Santa Rosa, CA. The awning tucks neatly under the roof of the house during the rainy months.

Photography by Jimi Smith / "Jimi Smith Photography"
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard rectangular patio remodel in Dallas with a fire pit, decking and a pergola

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

New entry mudroom featuring custom cabinetry with cubby storage and bench seating.
Mudroom - mid-sized transitional ceramic tile and gray floor mudroom idea in Boston with white walls and a medium wood front door

This condominium is modern and sleek, while still retaining much of its traditional charm. We added paneling to the walls, archway, door frames, and around the fireplace for a special and unique look throughout the home. To create the entry with convenient built-in shoe storage and bench, we cut an alcove an existing to hallway. The deep-silled windows in the kitchen provided the perfect place for an eating area, which we outfitted with shelving for additional storage. Form, function, and design united in the beautiful black and white kitchen. It is a cook’s dream with ample storage and counter space. The bathrooms play with gray and white in different materials and textures to create timeless looks. The living room’s built-in shelves and reading nook in the bedroom add detail and storage to the home. The pops of color and eye-catching light fixtures make this condo joyful and fun. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images Design Credit: Staci Levy Designs

This condominium is modern and sleek, while still retaining much of its traditional charm. We added paneling to the walls, archway, door frames, and around the fireplace for a special and unique look throughout the home. To create the entry with convenient built-in shoe storage and bench, we cut an alcove an existing to hallway. The deep-silled windows in the kitchen provided the perfect place for an eating area, which we outfitted with shelving for additional storage. Form, function, and design united in the beautiful black and white kitchen. It is a cook’s dream with ample storage and counter space. The bathrooms play with gray and white in different materials and textures to create timeless looks. The living room’s built-in shelves and reading nook in the bedroom add detail and storage to the home. The pops of color and eye-catching light fixtures make this condo joyful and fun. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images Design Credit: Staci Levy Designs

We completely renovated this Haverford home between Memorial Day and Labor Day! We maintained the traditional feel of this colonial home with Early-American heart pine floors and bead board on the walls of various rooms. But we also added features of modern living. The open concept kitchen has warm blue cabinetry, an eating area with a built-in bench with storage, and an especially convenient area for pet supplies and eating! Subtle and sophisticated, the bathrooms are awash in gray and white Carrara marble. We custom made built-in shelves, storage and a closet throughout the home. Crafting the millwork on the staircase walls, post and railing was our favorite part of the project. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Jon Friedrich Interior Design Credit: Larina Kase, of Wayne, PA

Recently completed walnut bench to complement this live edge dining table! This piece was constructed from a 2″ thick walnut slab, complete with custom designed wood legs. This custom live edge walnut table was constructed from a 2″ thick walnut slab and beautifully combined with a glass insert. The live edge runs along inside the middle (under the glass edge), which protects it from wear (and from snagging clothes and skin). The powder coated steel legs are a custom design, made by Downtown Ornamental Iron in Bend, Oregon. Photo by Lisa Graham

Inspiration for a small modern living room remodel in Houston

41 West Coastal Retreat Series reveals creative, fresh ideas, for a new look to define the casual beach lifestyle of Naples. More than a dozen custom variations and sizes are available to be built on your lot. From this spacious 3,000 square foot, 3 bedroom model, to larger 4 and 5 bedroom versions ranging from 3,500 - 10,000 square feet, including guest house options.

Master bedroom with oversized fan and iron canopy bed. White cotton linens, blue and white wool rug, linen upholstered bench and sheer drapery. Nightstands are substituted by large chests with oversized lamps which work well with the oversized scale of the bed and drapery. See more at: http://chango.co/portfolio/east-hampton-beach-cottage/ Photo by: Ball & Albanese

This amazing, U-shaped Memorial (Houston, TX 77024) custom kitchen design was influenced by the "The Great Gatsby" era with its custom zinc flared vent hood with nickel plated laminate straps. This terrific hood flares in on the front and the sides. The contrasting finishes help to add texture and character to this fully remodeled kitchen. This hood is considerably wider than the cooktop below. It's actually 60" wide with an open back splash and no cabinets on either side. We love to showcase vent hoods in most of our designs because it serves as a great conversation piece when entertaining family and friends. A good design tip is to always make the vent hood larger than the stove. It makes an incredible statement! The antiqued, mirror glass cabinets feature a faux finish with a furniture like feel. The large back splash features a zig zag design, often called "chevron pattern." The french sconces with nickel plated shades are beautifully displayed on each side of the gorgeous "La Cornue" stove adding bling to the kitchen's magnificence and giving an overall elegant look with easy clean up. Additionally, there are two (2) highbrow chandeliers by Curry & Company, gives the kitchen the love needed to be a step above the norm. The island bar has a farmhouse sink and a full slab of "Fantasy Brown" marble with seating for five. There is tons of storage throughout the kitchen with plenty of drawer and cabinet space on both sides of the island. The sub-zero refrigerator is totally integrated with cupboards and drawers to match. Another advantage of this variety of refrigeration is that you create furniture-style cabinetry. This is a truly great idea for a dateless design transformation in Houston with raised-panel cupboards and paneled appliances. Polished nickel handles, drawer pulls and faucet hardware complete the design.

This handcrafted Maple hardwood bench combines timeless craftsmanship with meaningful design. Built from solid USA-sourced Maple, this custom bench features brushed nickel base wraps, custom cross inlays, and a warm stain that highlights the natural beauty of the wood. Whether placed alongside a dining table, in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, or in a commercial waiting area, this versatile bench is designed to provide lasting beauty, comfort, and functionality for generations. This particular bench was custom built for our client in Howell, Michigan, to perfectly complement the existing hardwood tabletops throughout her home. The Maple was carefully stained to create a cohesive look, allowing every handcrafted piece to feel connected while still celebrating the unique character found in natural hardwood. The details are what truly make this piece one of a kind. Brushed nickel base wraps provide a clean, contemporary contrast against the warmth of the Maple, while custom cross inlays incorporated into each bench end create a meaningful personal touch designed specifically for our client. Every design decision—from the wood species and finish color to the metal accents and custom inlays—was intentionally selected to create a piece that reflects both the home and the family it was built for. Unlike mass-produced benches made from particle board or veneer, our furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to withstand everyday life and become an heirloom for future generations. Every board is carefully selected for its character, durability, and beauty, ensuring no two benches are ever exactly alike.

This handcrafted Maple hardwood bench combines timeless craftsmanship with meaningful design. Built from solid USA-sourced Maple, this custom bench features brushed nickel base wraps, custom cross inlays, and a warm stain that highlights the natural beauty of the wood. Whether placed alongside a dining table, in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, or in a commercial waiting area, this versatile bench is designed to provide lasting beauty, comfort, and functionality for generations. This particular bench was custom built for our client in Howell, Michigan, to perfectly complement the existing hardwood tabletops throughout her home. The Maple was carefully stained to create a cohesive look, allowing every handcrafted piece to feel connected while still celebrating the unique character found in natural hardwood. The details are what truly make this piece one of a kind. Brushed nickel base wraps provide a clean, contemporary contrast against the warmth of the Maple, while custom cross inlays incorporated into each bench end create a meaningful personal touch designed specifically for our client. Every design decision—from the wood species and finish color to the metal accents and custom inlays—was intentionally selected to create a piece that reflects both the home and the family it was built for. Unlike mass-produced benches made from particle board or veneer, our furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to withstand everyday life and become an heirloom for future generations. Every board is carefully selected for its character, durability, and beauty, ensuring no two benches are ever exactly alike.

This handcrafted Maple hardwood bench combines timeless craftsmanship with meaningful design. Built from solid USA-sourced Maple, this custom bench features brushed nickel base wraps, custom cross inlays, and a warm stain that highlights the natural beauty of the wood. Whether placed alongside a dining table, in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, or in a commercial waiting area, this versatile bench is designed to provide lasting beauty, comfort, and functionality for generations. This particular bench was custom built for our client in Howell, Michigan, to perfectly complement the existing hardwood tabletops throughout her home. The Maple was carefully stained to create a cohesive look, allowing every handcrafted piece to feel connected while still celebrating the unique character found in natural hardwood. The details are what truly make this piece one of a kind. Brushed nickel base wraps provide a clean, contemporary contrast against the warmth of the Maple, while custom cross inlays incorporated into each bench end create a meaningful personal touch designed specifically for our client. Every design decision—from the wood species and finish color to the metal accents and custom inlays—was intentionally selected to create a piece that reflects both the home and the family it was built for. Unlike mass-produced benches made from particle board or veneer, our furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to withstand everyday life and become an heirloom for future generations. Every board is carefully selected for its character, durability, and beauty, ensuring no two benches are ever exactly alike.

Photos by Gordon King
Inspiration for a large timeless galley porcelain tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Ottawa with a double-bowl sink, an island, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, glass tile backsplash and colored appliances