Inspiration for a modern home bar remodel in Dallas

Mark Woods
Inspiration for a small contemporary open concept concrete floor living room remodel in Seattle

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY FINALIST AWARD WINNER This family of four has recently purchased this home and their life style is involved with kids and outdoor activities. They disliked their current kitchen and the existing breakfast area was too small. The old wooden deck was small and falling apart, and they wanted to replace it with an area in which they could entertain and have a place for the kids to play. The first step in the renovation was to tear down the back wall of the existing kitchen and breakfast room. A major load bearing wall holding up part of the second floor, major structural beams had to be put in place. Once installed, a 10’ x 24’ addition was added to extend the kitchen and breakfast room. An interior laundry entrance was relocated to allow for pantry and bigger refrigerator to be installed. A large bay window was placed over the sink to bring more natural light into the workspace. The new kitchen layout offers a lot more storage and counter space. A large island offers a prep sink and significant counter space for cooking, having a buffet, doing homework or having a quick meal. The maple cabinetry with slight glaze of mocha, granite counters, a stone accented backsplash and stainless steel appliances give this kitchen remodel a real spark. Large double windows and transoms offer mom and dad full view of the built-in sandbox just outside so they can watch the children. New French doors lead onto the 20’ x 28’ flagstone patio. A short stone wall provides privacy and embedded lights make the space usable after sunset. The outcome has been a delight for this family and achieved their goals. They can entertain indoors or outdoors and the kids have a great place to play.

With the pending arrival of a beautiful baby girl, the homeowners of this 1928 Minneapolis Tudor wanted a basement that was conducive to a young child, but would still allow a place for family to gather and the occasional house guest. The original basement was typical; cold, lacking natural light with tiny, uncomfortably confined rooms and that “unique” basement smell. The goal was to reverse all of the ill effects of a rarely unappreciated space while increasing the performance of the older home. The frigid temperatures and wet, mildew odor was remedied by demolishing the entire slab floor and excavating to gain an extra six inches in ceiling height. It also allowed us to insulate to R-15, moisture proof under the new slab, install a drain tile and sump pump. Within the concrete slab is a hydronic, in-floor radiant heating system which further helps to add comfort to the space. Lastly, we also sprayed a closed-cell, expanding urethane foam on the inside of the foundation walls all the way to the first floor. To help bring more light down to the basement, we started by opening up the staircase on both sides. A curved wall bends light into the lower level while a countertop and cubbies below provide storage space for odds and ends. On the opposite wall, creatively placed cubbies provide places for paintings, ceramics and plants. We also removed the tiny 18” x 34” window on the south wall and installed a full-sized, high-efficiency, triple pane Pella egress window. To let lots of natural light into the window, we expanded the size of the cedar-lined egress well and included a built-in planter at the base to help bring life into an otherwise empty cavity. Small, unspecified spaces that became storage areas now have purpose. The areas are defined, yet open. Upon descending down the stairs, one is greeted by a large living room with curved walls, custom design media center, built-in daybed and bookshelves. Use of paint was important in the design. Naturally in older homes basements are going to have exposed beams, soffits and a whole gambit of nooks and crannies. Instead of disguising them, we played them up, which created a layer effect with the color. The color also adds a touch of playfulness which anyone, regardless of age, can enjoy. We scavenged the client’s garage and discovered that the previous homeowner kept the old, full-view glass front entry door in the garage. We re-installed the original glass knob and attached the door to sliding barn door hardware which was attached to the main structural beam of the lower level. On the other side of the door was the homeowners’ combined office and small fitness area. The office floor is a blend of thin strips of different colored cork. A built-in storage cabinet sits across from a site-built desk which forms to the curve of the dividing wall. A small, square hole in the curved wall provides a view to see who is coming down the stairs. Opposite of the office area and directly at the base of the stairs is a place for the homeowner’s treadmill. Hidden is the mechanical room, which is home to many green and energy efficient products. The washing machine is a low-water consumption unit while the dryer requires less energy to operate than most standard units. Both sit atop a checkerboard pattern of different colored VCT tiles. We also replaced the aging boiler, which only heated the first and second level, with a 95% efficient heat source for the entire house—including the basement. Behind the curved wall, the bathroom is conveniently located. A large, custom built no-formaldehyde added vanity supports the slab of remnant granite countertop. A piece of eco-resin wall panel, embedded with organic material, contains water in the shower and blends beautifully with the updated colors. Tucked under the stairs, we installed a dual-flush, low-water consumption toilet. Through creative space planning, we packed a lot of into a rather small space. As a result, we have three very happy homeowners who are enjoying their light, clean and safe lower level of their home—however, they’ve been hard pressed to think of it as a “basement”. highlights Moisture management system Insulated slab Hydronic in-floor heat Formaldehyde free cabinetry MN-made custom cabinets Ultra-low VOC paints Wool carpet Dual-flush toilet Cork floor No recessed lights Cedar egress window well with planter Re-used door Eco-resin

The new flow around the kitchen works for this busy family of five, and mom and dad always have a clear view of the family room. Natural elements are incorporated in a fresh transitional style in details such as quarter sawn white oak cabinetry with mitered cabinet doors. In lieu of a traditional set of table and chairs, the dining table is connected to the end of the large island, which also places it in a nice sunny spot in close proximity to the doors leading to the deck. Additional counter seating is included with complimentary furniture. The island is highlighted with a fantastic slab of natural stone, adding contrast and a little drama while perfectly complimenting the other materials in the space. The great room has an intimate feeling by defining its individual functions. In this case, the kitchen vs. the family room, we dropped the ceiling just enough to create two recessed areas that are thoughtfully punctuated with decorative lighting. This adds personality while offsetting the recessed fixtures needed in the space. Photo: Peter Krupenye

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY FINALIST AWARD WINNER This family of four has recently purchased this home and their life style is involved with kids and outdoor activities. They disliked their current kitchen and the existing breakfast area was too small. The old wooden deck was small and falling apart, and they wanted to replace it with an area in which they could entertain and have a place for the kids to play. The first step in the renovation was to tear down the back wall of the existing kitchen and breakfast room. A major load bearing wall holding up part of the second floor, major structural beams had to be put in place. Once installed, a 10’ x 24’ addition was added to extend the kitchen and breakfast room. An interior laundry entrance was relocated to allow for pantry and bigger refrigerator to be installed. A large bay window was placed over the sink to bring more natural light into the workspace. The new kitchen layout offers a lot more storage and counter space. A large island offers a prep sink and significant counter space for cooking, having a buffet, doing homework or having a quick meal. The maple cabinetry with slight glaze of mocha, granite counters, a stone accented backsplash and stainless steel appliances give this kitchen remodel a real spark. Large double windows and transoms offer mom and dad full view of the built-in sandbox just outside so they can watch the children. New French doors lead onto the 20’ x 28’ flagstone patio. A short stone wall provides privacy and embedded lights make the space usable after sunset. The outcome has been a delight for this family and achieved their goals. They can entertain indoors or outdoors and the kids have a great place to play.

Example of a mid-sized trendy beige floor bathroom design in DC Metro with flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, a two-piece toilet, multicolored walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops and white countertops

It was a pleasure to help this single dad transform a previous French Country motif into a Handsome Space with Masculine Vibe. The homeowner loves the blues you find in the Caribbean so we used those as accent colors throughout the rooms. Entry We painted the walls Sherwin Williams’ Latte (SW6108) to add warmth. We accessorized the homeowner’s beautiful burl wood cabinet with vibrant artwork and whimsical Chinese horses. I always recommend task lighting in a Foyer, if possible, and the rectangular lamp shade is the perfect shape to fit on the small end of the cabinet. Powder Room I adore the Candace Olson wallpaper we used in the Powder Room. The blocks look like sections of wood. It works great with the existing granite. Other examples of wallpaper here and here. Great Room We touched every surface in this Great Room from painting the walls Nomadic Desert (SW6107) to painting the ceiling Double Latte (SW9108) to make the room feel cozier to replacing the carpet with this transitional style with striated pattern to painting the white built-ins. Furniture placement was a real challenge because the grand piano needed to stay without blocking the traffic flow through the space. The homeowner also wanted us to incorporate his chess table and chairs. We centered a small seating area in front of the fireplace utilizing two oversized club chairs and an upholstered ottoman with a wood tray that slides. The wood bases on the chairs helps their size not overpower the room. The velvet ottoman fabric with navy, azure, and teal blues is a showstopper. We used the homeowner’s wonderful collection of unique puzzle boxes to accessorize the built-ins. We just added some pops of blues, greens and silver. The homeowner loves sculptural objects so the nickel twig wall decor was the perfect focal point above the mantle. We opted not to add anything to the mantle so it would not distract from the art piece. We added decorative drapery panels installed on short rods between each set of doors. The homeowner was open to this abstract floral pattern in greens and blues! We reupholstered the cushions for the chess table chairs in a fun geometric fabric that coordinates with the panel fabric. The homeowner does not use this set of doors to access the deck so we were able to position the table directly in front of them. Kelly Sisler of Kelly Faux Creations worked her magic on the built-ins. We used Sherwin Williams’ Mega Greige (SW7031) as the base and then applied a heavy bronze glaze. It completely transformed the Great Room. Other examples of painting built-ins here and here. We hoped you enjoyed this Handsome Space with Masculine Vibe. It was quite a transformation!

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Marco Sobrevinas
Transitional hallway photo in Toronto

There are some rooms you design to be current, or trendy, or fresh and new. Then there are Some that are designed to tell a story. This room is a collection of furniture and items that have been in the family for decades. I think all the members get nostalgic when entering this room. The maroon leather chairs from Dads old billiards room. The family portraits with 80s hair dos (which by the way don't ever throw out, who cares if they are a little dated display those bad boys). A rug that has seen at least two generations of babies grow up. All items collected over time. We added in some new drapery/pillows/Romans, some new lighting, and a few new accessories and voila. Design: Michelle Berwick Design Photography: Sam Stock Photography Other Credits: Tonic Living , Living Lighting, Wayfair Canada, Homesense Canada

Nearly everything you see in the house is from the recycling centre,” says Begg, laughing. The local community runs a trading website, where people can free-cycle unwanted furniture. Being in the heart of South Island ski-country, with plenty of sheep stations near by, meant that Begg was practically duty-bound to lavish her furniture with deer hides and shaggy Scandi-style sheepskins. She stayed with natural textures – wool loop-pile carpet that looks like sisal, linen upholstery and curtains – and then layered on her favourite Middle Eastern cushions and rugs.

Marco Sobrevinas
Inspiration for a transitional bathroom remodel in Toronto

There are some rooms you design to be current, or trendy, or fresh and new. Then there are Some that are designed to tell a story. This room is a collection of furniture and items that have been in the family for decades. I think all the members get nostalgic when entering this room. The maroon leather chairs from Dads old billiards room. The family portraits with 80s hair dos (which by the way don't ever throw out, who cares if they are a little dated display those bad boys). A rug that has seen at least two generations of babies grow up. All items collected over time. We added in some new drapery/pillows/Romans, some new lighting, and a few new accessories and voila. Design: Michelle Berwick Design Photography: Sam Stock Photography Other Credits: Tonic Living , Living Lighting, Wayfair Canada, Homesense Canada

Marco Sobrevinas
Example of a transitional family room design in Toronto

Marco Sobrevinas
Kitchen - transitional kitchen idea in Toronto

Marco Sobrevinas
Hallway - transitional hallway idea in Toronto

There are some rooms you design to be current, or trendy, or fresh and new. Then there are Some that are designed to tell a story. This room is a collection of furniture and items that have been in the family for decades. I think all the members get nostalgic when entering this room. The maroon leather chairs from Dads old billiards room. The family portraits with 80s hair dos (which by the way don't ever throw out, who cares if they are a little dated display those bad boys). A rug that has seen at least two generations of babies grow up. All items collected over time. We added in some new drapery/pillows/Romans, some new lighting, and a few new accessories and voila. Design: Michelle Berwick Design Photography: Sam Stock Photography Other Credits: Tonic Living , Living Lighting, Wayfair Canada, Homesense Canada