Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

Who wouldn't want to keep their apartment in Buenos Aires? This family did. Which meant their new home in Bloomington was a fresh start and needed remodeling as well as furnishings—rugs, seating, art and everything in between. Local architect Russ Herndon revamped and opened up the kitchen in this 1970s ranch, moving awkwardly placed doors in three different locations to improve the traffic flow and allow for optimal furniture placement. SYI swept in to furnish and finish the public spaces with a careful mix of vintage and new, neutral and bold, family comfort and modern chic. The homeowner (turned friend) was a wonderful collaborator and speedy decision maker. Only one hard and fast rule governed the process: no yellow and blue, the colors of Brazil, Argentina's arch rival in soccer.

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

Brad Haines knows a thing or two about building things. The intensely creative and innovative founder of Oklahoma City-based Haines Capital is the driving force behind numerous successful companies including Bank 7 (NASDAQ BSVN), which proudly reported record year-end earnings since going public in September of last year. He has beautifully built, renovated, and personally thumb printed all of his commercial spaces and residences. “Our theory is to keep things sophisticated but comfortable,” Brad says. That’s the exact approach he took in his personal haven in Nichols Hills, Oklahoma. Painstakingly renovated over the span of two years by Candeleria Foster Design-Build of Oklahoma City, his home boasts museum-white, authentic Venetian plaster walls and ceilings; charcoal tiled flooring; imported marble in the master bath; and a pretty kitchen you’ll want to emulate. Reminiscent of an edgy luxury hotel, it is a vibe conjured by Cantoni designer Nicole George. “The new remodel plan was all about opening up the space and layering monochromatic color with lots of texture,” says Nicole, who collaborated with Brad on two previous projects. “The color palette is minimal, with charcoal, bone, amber, stone, linen and leather.” “Sophisticated“Sophisticated“Sophisticated“Sophisticated“Sophisticated Nicole helped oversee space planning and selection of interior finishes, lighting, furnishings and fine art for the entire 7,000-square-foot home. It is now decked top-to-bottom in pieces sourced from Cantoni, beginning with the custom-ordered console at entry and a pair of Glacier Suspension fixtures over the stairwell. “Every angle in the house is the result of a critical thought process,” Nicole says. “We wanted to make sure each room would be purposeful.” To that end, “we reintroduced the ‘parlor,’ and also redefined the formal dining area as a bar and drink lounge with enough space for 10 guests to comfortably dine,” Nicole says. Brad’s parlor holds the Swing sectional customized in a silky, soft-hand charcoal leather crafted by prominent Italian leather furnishings company Gamma. Nicole paired it with the Kate swivel chair customized in a light grey leather, the sleek DK writing desk, and the Black & More bar cabinet by Malerba. “Nicole has a special design talent and adapts quickly to what we expect and like,” Brad says. To create the restaurant-worthy dining space, Nicole brought in a black-satin glass and marble-topped dining table and mohair-velvet chairs, all by Italian maker Gallotti & Radice. Guests can take a post-dinner respite on the adjoining room’s Aston sectional by Gamma. In the formal living room, Nicole paired Cantoni’s Fashion Affair club chairs with the Black & More cocktail table, and sofas sourced from Désirée, an Italian furniture upholstery company that creates cutting-edge yet comfortable pieces. The color-coordinating kitchen and breakfast area, meanwhile, hold a set of Guapa counter stools in ash grey leather, and the Ray dining table with light-grey leather Cattelan Italia chairs. The expansive loggia also is ideal for entertaining and lounging with the Versa grand sectional, the Ido cocktail table in grey aged walnut and Dolly chairs customized in black nubuck leather. Nicole made most of the design decisions, but, “she took my suggestions seriously and then put me in my place,” Brad says. She had the master bedroom’s Marlon bed by Gamma customized in a remarkably soft black leather with a matching stitch and paired it with onyx gloss Black & More nightstands. “The furnishings absolutely complement the style,” Brad says. “They are high-quality and have a modern flair, but at the end of the day, are still comfortable and user-friendly.” The end result is a home Brad not only enjoys, but one that Nicole also finds exceptional. “I honestly love every part of this house,” Nicole says. “Working with Brad is always an adventure but a privilege that I take very seriously, from the beginning of the design process to installation.”

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

The grandiose master suite finishes out this spectacular home, with beautiful French doors that allow for abundance of natural light and access to a private deck. A freestanding chrome tub and voluminous marble shower complete with sitting bench make for a hard decision maker at the end of a long day. This master bath boasts heated floors throughout, along with a heated towel rack. The new expansive vanity hosts two sinks and plenty of storage, making it ideal for our clients. A generous walk-in closet designed to house any article of clothing that you can think of rounds out this new relaxation suite.

The grandiose master suite finishes out this spectacular home, with beautiful French doors that allow for abundance of natural light and access to a private deck. A freestanding chrome tub and voluminous marble shower complete with sitting bench make for a hard decision maker at the end of a long day. This master bath boasts heated floors throughout, along with a heated towel rack. The new expansive vanity hosts two sinks and plenty of storage, making it ideal for our clients. A generous walk-in closet designed to house any article of clothing that you can think of rounds out this new relaxation suite.

Who wouldn't want to keep their apartment in Buenos Aires? This family did. Which meant their new home in Bloomington was a fresh start and needed remodeling as well as furnishings—rugs, seating, art and everything in between. Local architect Russ Herndon revamped and opened up the kitchen in this 1970s ranch, moving awkwardly placed doors in three different locations to improve the traffic flow and allow for optimal furniture placement. SYI swept in to furnish and finish the public spaces with a careful mix of vintage and new, neutral and bold, family comfort and modern chic. The homeowner (turned friend) was a wonderful collaborator and speedy decision maker. Only one hard and fast rule governed the process: no yellow and blue, the colors of Brazil, Argentina's arch rival in soccer.

The grandiose master suite finishes out this spectacular home, with beautiful French doors that allow for abundance of natural light and access to a private deck. A freestanding chrome tub and voluminous marble shower complete with sitting bench make for a hard decision maker at the end of a long day. This master bath boasts heated floors throughout, along with a heated towel rack. The new expansive vanity hosts two sinks and plenty of storage, making it ideal for our clients. A generous walk-in closet designed to house any article of clothing that you can think of rounds out this new relaxation suite.

The grandiose master suite finishes out this spectacular home, with beautiful French doors that allow for abundance of natural light and access to a private deck. A freestanding chrome tub and voluminous marble shower complete with sitting bench make for a hard decision maker at the end of a long day. This master bath boasts heated floors throughout, along with a heated towel rack. The new expansive vanity hosts two sinks and plenty of storage, making it ideal for our clients. A generous walk-in closet designed to house any article of clothing that you can think of rounds out this new relaxation suite.

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

Most design showhouses are properties for sale, and each designer creates a space for viewing. It’s a great way to market the property and the designer. However, the Kingston Design Showhouse in the Fall of 2019 was at Historic Wiltyck House in Kingston, New York, that's partially used as an Airbnb and home for the owners. The room I designed is the homeowner's private dining room; therefore, we took their taste and needs into account, especially on architectural decisions. The overall style is a mixture of modern and traditional, feminine and masculine, and moody and bright, lots of depth but not overwhelming. The architecture serves as a canvas for the furniture showcased during the exhibit and then the homeowner's furniture that will occupy the space afterward. Small details such as replacing or refinishing the doorknobs, replacing the switches and outlets were not forgotten. Then more significant details such as the wallpapered ceiling, new ceiling medallion, and light fixture make a tremendous impact on the space. The wall paint is neutral enough but adds depth with its medium tone gray. Then we added a white border and mauve painted trim as an interpretation of the crown molding that's missing. During the exhibit, we had local makers from the Hudson Valley well represented through furniture, accessories, art, and floral arrangements. All are makers that I love and want to share with you; without them, the room wouldn’t be as lovely as it is.

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

All furniture and accessories were bought at Serenity Design. If you are interested in purchasing anything you see in our photographs please contact us at the store 609-494-5162. Many of the items can be shipped throughout the country. Photographs by John Martinelli

Who wouldn't want to keep their apartment in Buenos Aires? This family did. Which meant their new home in Bloomington was a fresh start and needed remodeling as well as furnishings—rugs, seating, art and everything in between. Local architect Russ Herndon revamped and opened up the kitchen in this 1970s ranch, moving awkwardly placed doors in three different locations to improve the traffic flow and allow for optimal furniture placement. SYI swept in to furnish and finish the public spaces with a careful mix of vintage and new, neutral and bold, family comfort and modern chic. The homeowner (turned friend) was a wonderful collaborator and speedy decision maker. Only one hard and fast rule governed the process: no yellow and blue, the colors of Brazil, Argentina's arch rival in soccer.

Bilotta senior designer, Paula Greer, teamed up with architect, Robin Zahn to design this large gourmet kitchen for a family that does a lot of entertaining and cooking. While the wife was the decision maker for the overall aesthetics, the functionality of the space was driven by the husband, the aspiring chef. He had specific requests on how he wanted his “work area” set up. The team designed a cooking area featuring a 48” range across from a prep sink surrounded by 10 feet of work space. All the cooking essentials are at arm’s length – spice pull-out; interior knife block; baskets for root vegetables; cooking utensil drawers; and even a stainless-steel shelf above the range to keep plates warm before serving. Further down, away from the “chef”, is the “clean-up” area with a larger sink and the dishwasher. The microwave and the refrigerators/freezers are also at this opposite end, keeping the rest of the family out of his space when he’s cooking. This was his #1 request. The wet bar, just off of the kitchen, also houses a beverage unit and the coffee maker which keeps people out of the way during prep time. The kitchen was part of a larger addition which allowed them to incorporate the high ceiling, opening up the space to make room for the 6 feet worth of refrigeration and the large 10-foot island that works simultaneously for prep and eating. The Artistic Tile mosaic backsplash, where possible, starts at the countertop and continues all the way up to the molding at the ceiling emphasizing the height of the space, and the size of the room, even more.

Who wouldn't want to keep their apartment in Buenos Aires? This family did. Which meant their new home in Bloomington was a fresh start and needed remodeling as well as furnishings—rugs, seating, art and everything in between. Local architect Russ Herndon revamped and opened up the kitchen in this 1970s ranch, moving awkwardly placed doors in three different locations to improve the traffic flow and allow for optimal furniture placement. SYI swept in to furnish and finish the public spaces with a careful mix of vintage and new, neutral and bold, family comfort and modern chic. The homeowner (turned friend) was a wonderful collaborator and speedy decision maker. Only one hard and fast rule governed the process: no yellow and blue, the colors of Brazil, Argentina's arch rival in soccer.