This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city. Before: Feeling Disconnected Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update. Worries and Concerns Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise. The Solution: A Personalized Transformation We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together. The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry! Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round. The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space. Overcoming Challenges As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types. The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere. Life Transformed Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves. A Memorable Journey This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

A complete primary bathroom remodel in Springfield, Virginia, designed around three priorities our clients came in with: a real walk-in shower, a freestanding tub by the windows, and a proper double vanity with storage that actually worked. The original layout had everything in the wrong place. The tub sat against an interior wall away from the natural light. A small stall shower took up real estate across the room. The vanity was squeezed into whatever space was left over. Three windows on the back wall were doing nothing for the room because the layout was fighting them. Our solution involved knocking down the dividing wall between the old shower and vanity area, relocating plumbing for both the tub and the new vanities, and placing the freestanding tub directly under the bay of windows so morning light became part of the experience. Design Approach We anchored the room around contrast: deep navy cabinetry against soft white walls, warm brushed gold against cool marble tile, sharp Shaker lines against the curved silhouette of the freestanding tub. Navy was the design decision the rest of the room was built around — the clients knew they wanted color but didn't want anything that would feel dated in five years. Navy reads bold without being loud, pairs with virtually any metal finish, and has staying power that trendier choices don't. We used Fabuwood Galaxy Indigo for the vanities — all-plywood construction with solid wood doors and drawer fronts, soft close throughout. Shaker-style flat panels keep the navy from feeling heavy. The brushed gold (Jeffrey Alexander 635-96SBZ in satin bronze) shows up across hardware, faucets, lighting, the tub filler, and the shower trim, creating a quiet continuity throughout the room. The Shower Removing the wall between the old shower and old vanity area created room for a proper walk-in. We tiled the entire shower floor to ceiling in Decovita Calacatta Suave 24x48" porcelain — large format installed in a 50% offset horizontal pattern, with cement board and redgard underneath. The marble-look porcelain gives the visual depth of natural marble without the maintenance. A built-in shower bench, custom-built into the corner, is wrapped in the same wall tile on the front with a quartz top matching the vanity counter. The shower niche is detailed with MSI Arabescato Carrara 2" honed hex mosaic at the back, the same tile used on the shower floor. All tile edges are finished with Schluter in satin bronze to match the room's metal finishes. The shower door is custom frameless 3/8" tempered glass with a satin bronze pull — no metal frame interrupting the sight line. The Vanities and Countertops The new double vanity gives both clients their own space for morning routines. Counter tops are MSI Calacatta Miraggio Cielo quartz with pencil edging and a 4" backsplash — a soft white with subtle gray veining that reads like real Calacatta marble without the porosity issues. Two undermount square porcelain sinks finish the surface cleanly. The Tub A 60" freestanding soaker tub sits under the bay of three windows. The floor-mounted tub filler is satin bronze with a handheld sprayer. We relocated the drain and supply lines to make the centered placement work. The tub is the room's quietest feature and its strongest — clients tell us they use this bathroom differently than they used the old one. Flooring MSI Sande Ivory 12x24" matte porcelain runs throughout the bathroom floor in a 50% offset pattern parallel to the vanity wall. Cement board underneath, 4" white wood baseboard, Whisper Grey grout that handles daily use without showing wear. Paint and Lighting Walls are Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace 2121-70 in satin — a true crisp white that doesn't lean cool or warm. The ceiling uses Benjamin Moore Aura Bath and Spa White, which is formulated to resist mildew in high-humidity spaces. Lighting is layered: three new 6" LED recessed lights on a dimmer, two satin bronze vanity sconces above the mirrors, and the existing three windows providing the daytime ambient light. Project Specs Location: Springfield, Virginia Project type: Full primary bathroom remodel Project duration: Approximately 5 weeks Style: Modern, Transitional Color palette: Navy, white, brushed gold, marble Materials Cabinetry: Fabuwood Galaxy Indigo, Shaker-style flat panel maple, all-plywood construction Cabinet hardware: Jeffrey Alexander 635-96SBZ Satin Bronze pulls Vanity counter and bench top: MSI Calacatta Miraggio Cielo Quartz, pencil edge with 4" backsplash Sinks: Undermount white porcelain BR-202 square (x2) Wall tile: Decovita Calacatta Suave 24x48" porcelain Floor tile: MSI Sande Ivory 12x24" matte porcelain Shower floor + niche back: MSI Arabescato Carrara 2" honed hex mosaic marble Edge trim: Schluter satin bronze Shower door: Custom frameless 3/8" tempered glass Tub: 60" freestanding acrylic soaker (Ferguson) Tub filler: Floor-mounted satin bronze (Ferguson) Vanity faucets, mirrors, sconces, toilet: Satin bronze coordinated finishes (Ferguson) Wall paint: Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace 2121-70 Satin Ceiling paint: Benjamin Moore Aura Bath and Spa White Grout: Whisper Grey (floor), Standard White (walls and shower) Designed and built by My Kitchen and Bath out of our Alexandria showroom at 5710 General Washington Drive. We've been designing and building kitchens, bathrooms, and full home renovations across Northern Virginia and the DMV since 1994.

Prestige seized the opportunity to build one of the hottest trends in Seattle architecture: living small and smart in a contemporary DADU (detached accessory dwelling unit). This modern structure boasts engineered wide-plank wood flooring and refined CVG fir cabinetry. The one bedroom dwelling feels much larger than its 492 square feet and includes vaulted ceilings, a spacious ¾ bathroom, and a greatroom that opens to the privacy-screened deck. The large windows welcome natural light and views of Mount Rainier and Lake Washington. Of special construction note: interior design decisions include under-cabinet LED kitchen lighting, sleek solid-surfacing countertops, penny round tile backsplash, and a stainless steel appliance package. High-efficiency systems include an on-demand domestic hot water system as well as both heating and air-conditioning. Photos by Cindy Apple.

Kitchen in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Perched in the rolling landscape of Alta, Wyoming, this legacy home was thoughtfully designed to belong to the land, not dominate it. Nestled into the hillside with sweeping views of the elk migration path and the Teton Range, every decision was made with future generations in mind. Led by Julie Cavanaugh, this project reflects her passion for designing legacy homes...places that honor family history, respect the land, and are built to be passed down for generations. With roots on this property dating back to the late 1800s, the homeowners envisioned a home that would tell their family’s story well into the future. As featured in the latest edition of Mountain Living Magazine, this home is more than a retreat, it’s a promise to the past and a gift to generations to come. With 70 acres of land, this timber framed home totals 5,752 sf. - 4 bed, 4.5 bath

Our clients, a vibrant young family with two energetic kids and a playful dog, were feeling the constraints of their outdated, cramped house. The Main Floor was divided by walls, fragmenting the Kitchen, Dining Room, and living areas, making family time and entertaining a bit of a struggle. The Kitchen was small and dim, lacking counter space and storage. The kids' study/play table was squeezed into a tight corner, emphasizing the lack of space. The dark hardwood floors were scratched and worn, and the foyer felt cramped and uninviting. The powder room was also The idea of a major renovation brought both excitement and a bit of anxiety. The couple was unsure about design decisions and worried about the challenges of dealing with structural columns and beams. Collaborating with Sosna designer Camila, the family embarked on a journey to transform their outdated house into a bright, functional home. To open up the space, walls were removed, creating a seamless flow between the foyer, living room, dining room, and kitchen. The kitchen was relocated and expanded to include generous counter space and a large island, providing the ideal spot for the kids to help prepare meals—a task they’ve come to enjoy since the renovation—or work on their homework. Additionally, the addition of a cozy window bench offers extra seating for hanging out with the family. It’s also the perfect place to curl up with a good book. The once dark and gloomy powder room was completely refreshed with new fixtures, a white oak vanity, and beautiful floor tiles, which significantly brightened it up. Additionally, the dark hardwood floors were replaced with a lighter, more modern option, brightening the entire main floor. The renovation wasn't without its hiccups. A mix-up with the hardwood flooring led to a last-minute scramble for a replacement. But in the end, the family fell in love with the new flooring, proving that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to even better outcomes. The renovation completely transformed the home. What was once a cramped and segmented main floor is now a bright, open space perfectly suited to the family's lifestyle. The new kitchen island became the heart of the home, providing a place for the kids to do homework while their parents cooked, fostering a sense of togetherness. The open layout also made hosting gatherings effortless. Throughout the renovation, the kids and their dog brought a playful energy to the construction site, forming a special bond with the crew. Despite the challenges of living through a renovation, the family managed to maintain a sense of normalcy, working from home when possible and appreciating the crew's efforts to keep things tidy. What started as a simple update turned into a full-scale transformation that reflects the family’s needs and personal style. Their willingness to embrace bold design choices, such as blush pink tiles and bright floral patterns, adds a unique touch to the space. And that hardwood flooring mix-up? It turned out to be a happy accident, resulting in a floor they love even more. In the end, this renovation was more than just a home makeover; it was about creating a space that truly feels like home, nurturing family connections, and bringing joy to everyday life.

We helped the Sacara family renovate their 1,200-square-foot home in the prime Upper West Side location. The original layout included two bedrooms with a shared bathroom, a combined living/dining room area, and a separate kitchen. The family wanted to complete a full apartment renovation and make the layout more functional by adding a second bathroom, laundry room, and additional closets as well as creating an open kitchen concept. The design challenge was to deliver a modern yet classic aesthetic for the entire apartment that captured the family’s vision for a perfect home. The goal was to combine the kitchen and living room areas creating a harmonious flow of natural light and air; add a kitchen island with an additional seating area, and utilize every inch of usable space in the kitchen. The design solution offered a cozy seating area by the window for a morning cup of coffee which simultaneously served as a cover for all the plumbing communications and radiator. A built-in fireplace wall separated the living and dining room zones visually yet allowed them to stay bright and functional. The design and architectural teams collaborated to create multiple layouts and design solutions so the Sacara family had options. Finally, the choice was made and the clients felt confident in their decision. At the building stage, the full apartment renovation included the removal and installation of all walls, bathroom and laundry room addition, and complete closet reconfiguration. Kitchen remodeling featured custom cabinetry, decorative wood island paneling, and a white marble countertop for a luxurious look. The bathroom renovation highlighted herringbone and onyx tiling for color accents. Additionally, the team replaced all hardwood floors throughout the apartment, installed new baseboards, painted all walls and ceilings, and built the new LED channel lighting with dimmer switches. In a matter of a few months, the Sacara family had a fully-remodeled home that expressed their style, vision, and improved functionality.

Since 1994 Chip-N-Dale’s Custom Landscaping has been serving the Las Vegas Valley and Henderson as a full service design build landscape firm, specializing in creating custom and unique landscape designs. We provide our clients with excellence in custom residential landscaping through our creative landscape designs, exceptional customer service and our commitment to quality. Our services include: custom landscaping, concrete pavers, low voltage lighting systems, custom barbeques, outdoor living environments with waterfalls and custom water features, synthetic turf, putting greens, masonry walls and custom stone work. Chip-N-Dale’s employs a full service maintenance division dedicated to keeping your landscaping looking beautiful year round. Our commitment to quality is showcased on each and every project and backed by a One Year Guarantee on all materials and labor. Our professionalism along with our constant dedication to fulfilling our client’s vision has made us the premier custom landscape contractor in Las Vegas. We understand the importance of the decision in choosing the right landscape contractor. The company you choose must possess a strong management team with leadership and a commitment to excellence. The company must employ dedicated and skilled personnel who take pride and a sense of accomplishment in their work, Chip-N-Dale’s Custom Landscaping takes immense pride in being that company. The difference between an ordinary landscape and an extraordinary landscape lies in the details. Quality, service, pride and commitment to excellence are why Chip-N-Dale’s Custom Landscaping is the right choice for your next landscape project. Regards, Greg Struhl President

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city. Before: Feeling Disconnected Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update. Worries and Concerns Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise. The Solution: A Personalized Transformation We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together. The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry! Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round. The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space. Overcoming Challenges As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types. The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere. Life Transformed Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves. A Memorable Journey This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

“Remodel for the Neighbors” Judkins Park Project featured on “Renovation Nation” television show Description House lift and wholesale remodel of a structure that everyone called a teardown. This is one of four homes built in 1908, in an area where townhomes are on the march, and cottages on the way out. Challenge Everything in the house was ruined. On the outside the asbestos siding was crumbling, and the back addition was turning into a nurse log. There were rickety wooden stairs to get down to the back yard, disconnecting the main living space from the yard. Inside the kitchen floor was extremely weak and rainwater was sheeting down one wall. Inspiration We loved the history of the house and wanted to preserve the fabric of the neighborhood. There was great proportion to house. It had great structural bones with a box ceiling and beautiful inlaid floor. This was a move that you make from the heart, and it drove our decisions. Solution + Innovation We honored the spirit of the historic house, but added modern elements that fit the character, kept the relationship to the street, and the integrity to the other houses in the row. We lifted the house and built a full-height ICF insulated concrete form basement, then set it back down. We built an addition to achieve an interior staircase to connect the upstairs living space with the back yard which only added 8.5 feet in length to the house. We also created a hydronic heating system in the wood floor, making this a low load hydronic house. How is it sustainable? We didn’t tear down the house and instead made the best of what we had to work with. We recycled wood and used forest salvaged wood for the cabinets. We repurposed a laboratory sink as a bath tub, and made stairs out of Garfield High School bleachers that we salvaged from another project. The overall energy usage is exceptional. We skinned the outside with insulation before the new siding went back on. We added solar, best in class windows, and LED lighting throughout. The entire 2200 square foot house uses one 50-gallon water tank, and the house is heated with this one tank.

This is a perfect example of how we work, and why our clients choose to work with us once they meet us. Kitchen remodel is not only about buying Cabinets. It’s much, much more than that. It’s finding the right people who can think on the fly/outside the box. Who can design/re-design and execute the details even when they have to make delicate and complicated decisions in the field to help keep the project on time. White solid Wood Cabinets, double crown moldings, Drawer microwave, pot filler, and large 30” undermount stainless steel sink with a tall faucet to anchor it. Bold backsplash tiles, elegant 36” professional hood, light rail moldings, pull out Drawers and organizers inside of the cabinets, LED lighting on dimmer switches all combined with new matching wood flooring made this kitchen stand out in this space. Cabinets, Countertop and design were provided by RAJ team, along with other collaborative team work between our recommended General Contractor and our client. The entire team was awesome and the project was beautifully executed!

Perched in the rolling landscape of Alta, Wyoming, this legacy home was thoughtfully designed to belong to the land, not dominate it. Nestled into the hillside with sweeping views of the elk migration path and the Teton Range, every decision was made with future generations in mind. Led by Julie Cavanaugh, this project reflects her passion for designing legacy homes...places that honor family history, respect the land, and are built to be passed down for generations. With roots on this property dating back to the late 1800s, the homeowners envisioned a home that would tell their family’s story well into the future. As featured in the latest edition of Mountain Living Magazine, this home is more than a retreat, it’s a promise to the past and a gift to generations to come. With 70 acres of land, this timber framed home totals 5,752 sf. - 4 bed, 4.5 bath

Living Room in West Trail Drive | Moody Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Full home remodel and furnishings | Project Name: West Trail Drive Residence | Key Feature: A moody, modern aesthetic built from the ground up through renovation and furnishings, where every finish, fixture, and piece of furniture was selected to work as a cohesive whole rather than a collection of separate decisions. Challenge: The home had good bones but felt generic. The clients wanted something that reflected a specific point of view, not a safe Scottsdale palette. The risk with moody, dark interiors is that they can feel heavy or disconnected if the layering isn't right. Solution: Living with Lolo led both the remodel and the furnishings, which meant the design intent carried through from the walls and floors all the way to how the room actually lives. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, there was no handoff between designer and contractor. That single point of accountability kept the vision intact and the project on track. Materials: Custom cabinetry, natural stone surfaces, designer lighting, curated furniture and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $150,000 to $400,000 | Timeline: 4 to 8 months.

Dining Room in West Trail Drive | Moody Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Full home remodel and furnishings | Project Name: West Trail Drive Residence | Key Feature: A moody, modern aesthetic built from the ground up through renovation and furnishings, where every finish, fixture, and piece of furniture was selected to work as a cohesive whole rather than a collection of separate decisions. Challenge: The home had good bones but felt generic. The clients wanted something that reflected a specific point of view, not a safe Scottsdale palette. The risk with moody, dark interiors is that they can feel heavy or disconnected if the layering isn't right. Solution: Living with Lolo led both the remodel and the furnishings, which meant the design intent carried through from the walls and floors all the way to how the room actually lives. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, there was no handoff between designer and contractor. That single point of accountability kept the vision intact and the project on track. Materials: Custom cabinetry, natural stone surfaces, designer lighting, curated furniture and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $150,000 to $400,000 | Timeline: 4 to 8 months.

The design approach focused on updating the kitchen while honoring the home’s original character. Rather than introducing a completely different aesthetic, the goal was to reinterpret the existing warmth, texture, and craftsmanship in a fresh way. A key decision was selecting cabinetry that could reflect the richness of the original bamboo. This led to a custom walnut finish that felt authentic to the home yet elevated in its execution. Eclectic materials were thoughtfully layered to create interest and personality, but carefully balanced so the space felt curated, cohesive, and enduring. The updated design includes slate flooring, Plato Cabinetry in a custom walnut finish, and 3 cm soapstone countertops that add depth and natural character. High-performance Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances—including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and beverage center, along with a Wolf speed oven and hood—bring modern functionality to this artfully composed space.

The major kitchen renovation of this old country farmhouse was a task of love, one that had been planned for many years by these Barrington seasoned homeowners. After interviewing no less than five companies, the homeowners chose the design team at Advance Design Studio to make the transformation they had long planned for. “They had an understanding of the right design for the space almost from the instant they walked in the room”, says Sharon Scott of the design team of Nicole Ryan at Todd Jurs at Advance Design Studio. “They were the only designers who laid out ideas in the first meeting at the house that we really loved”, she says. “It was obvious that they understood the house, and understood us - and from then on the decision to hire them literally made itself”. The original kitchen had a dividing “wall” of cabinetry…that made the rather large space seem very small, and cut off the kitchen from the eating area that has a beautiful garden view completely hidden from the main kitchen. Circulation was poor, leaving family members on top of one another when entertaining family and friends. The new kitchen design nearly doubles the kitchen size within the original space; opening it up completely and enjoying an expansive island containing a new Kohler Whitehaven Smart Divide farm sink, a dishwasher, and pull out double trash receptacle. The great new gathering space accommodates four pull out stools beckoning grandchildren and friends alike. Removing the range from the island and relocating it to create a dramatic “feature” wall, completely out of the way of guests; it is now crowned with a beautiful completely customized wood hood designed to ventilate much more efficiently than the original island range containing a limited downdraft system. The much more efficient use of the space after removing a pantry closet made way for a fully functional “tall wall” housing a double oven and refrigerator, out of the way of guests. Removing the restrictive cabinetry wall now allowed for an expansive floor to ceiling pantry cabinet with full extension pull out shelving, and an elegant display area complete with a beautiful furniture detailed buffet. Fitting perfectly into the farmhouse charm of the old estate, Medallion Silver Lancaster cabinetry was chosen in a soft white Maple Divinity paint finish lining the perimeter. The stunning island hints to this old home’s past with Medallion Gold’s Maple Devonshire style graced with a Carriage Black Heirloom painted finish. The rubbed off black paint finish reveals the soft wood tones beneath, mimicking furniture you’d see in your grandmother’s home that has lovingly been polished for years to reveal a soft, subtly rubbed-off sheen. Counter tops reverse contrast with perimeter tops of black “Raven” granite possessing a subtle honed finish, and a shift to Quartz Difinity Viareggio - resembling white Carrera marble on the island. A simple herringbone detail completes the decorative range wall, and subtle porcelain subway tiles grace the backsplash throughout. The design is finished off with crisp Thermador and Bosch stainless steel appliances, and bright brushed cup pull and handle combination hardware. A pull down Kohler Bellaria faucet makes cleanup a breeze, and soft under-cabinet LED lighting throughout makes every work surface shine softly, and highlights the cabinetry display area with grace. One special detail was created to make the dramatic ceiling transition to a vaulted area above the breakfast nook extra special. A tongue and groove solid wood ceiling was hung above, and a subtle greenish-grey distressed paint finish was hand developed on site by the talented crew, complementing the new kitchen with a completely unique surface that appears as if it’s been there for many, many years. It’s just one standout feature in the amazing new space that is sure to be in every conversation as newcomers enjoy the newest best hangout in this old home renewed! After 30 years of renovating homes, this now content homeowner sips a cup of tea enjoying her new garden view, and reminisces projects of past – and lastly reports their experience with Advance Design Studio culminating with their amazing new kitchen to be the most enjoyable and satisfying home experience yet. Designer: Nicole Ryan Photographer: Joe Nowak

Kitchen in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

We helped the Sacara family renovate their 1,200-square-foot home in the prime Upper West Side location. The original layout included two bedrooms with a shared bathroom, a combined living/dining room area, and a separate kitchen. The family wanted to complete a full apartment renovation and make the layout more functional by adding a second bathroom, laundry room, and additional closets as well as creating an open kitchen concept. The design challenge was to deliver a modern yet classic aesthetic for the entire apartment that captured the family’s vision for a perfect home. The goal was to combine the kitchen and living room areas creating a harmonious flow of natural light and air; add a kitchen island with an additional seating area, and utilize every inch of usable space in the kitchen. The design solution offered a cozy seating area by the window for a morning cup of coffee which simultaneously served as a cover for all the plumbing communications and radiator. A built-in fireplace wall separated the living and dining room zones visually yet allowed them to stay bright and functional. The design and architectural teams collaborated to create multiple layouts and design solutions so the Sacara family had options. Finally, the choice was made and the clients felt confident in their decision. At the building stage, the full apartment renovation included the removal and installation of all walls, bathroom and laundry room addition, and complete closet reconfiguration. Kitchen remodeling featured custom cabinetry, decorative wood island paneling, and a white marble countertop for a luxurious look. The bathroom renovation highlighted herringbone and onyx tiling for color accents. Additionally, the team replaced all hardwood floors throughout the apartment, installed new baseboards, painted all walls and ceilings, and built the new LED channel lighting with dimmer switches. In a matter of a few months, the Sacara family had a fully-remodeled home that expressed their style, vision, and improved functionality.

Living Room in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.