This long-time family home was ready for a thoughtful evolution. Originally built years ago, the homeowners came to us seeking a comprehensive renovation that better reflected how they live today — entertaining frequently, welcoming their grown children home for holidays and summers, and desiring spaces that feel elevated, functional, and deeply personal. What began as a kitchen and bath update ultimately became a whole-home transformation, touching every floor — from the main living level to the bedroom floor and even the attic. On the first floor, we completed a full gut renovation and thoughtful reconfiguration of the layout. Walls were removed — including a former pantry and powder room — to dramatically improve sightlines and flow between the kitchen and living room. The kitchen footprint was expanded to accommodate a generously sized island designed for gathering. A two-tone cabinetry palette establishes subtle zoning: Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue anchors the island and refrigerator surround, while White Tie brightens the perimeter cabinetry. Paneled appliances conceal the dishwasher and trash, while a stainless refrigerator adds balance and contrast. Antique brass hardware and oversized statement pendants layer in warmth and charm. Inside the cabinetry, custom storage solutions — from built-in spice racks and pull-out trays to a dedicated Tupperware drawer with lid dividers — ensure everything has its place. The former dining room was reimagined as a full-service butler’s pantry, complete with a second prep sink, paneled beverage drawers, an ice maker, glass display cabinetry, and abundant storage. Two built-in desks and a bench create a flexible zone for puzzles, homework, or casual seating. By relocating coffee and cocktail service to this dedicated space, the main kitchen remains uncluttered — even during large gatherings. The powder room was thoughtfully relocated to support the new layout and transformed into a jewel-box moment for guests. Schumacher’s Romantic Bosphorus mural wallpaper creates a hand-painted, immersive experience. A custom console vanity with a Carrara marble top and backsplash pairs beautifully with an antique brass wall-mounted faucet, layered with warm lighting and brass finishes for an unforgettable impression. Beyond the kitchen, we opened up the living room and installed a custom bi-fold door system that seamlessly connects the interior to the screened-in porch, enhancing indoor-outdoor living. A bespoke music room was also created on the main level, complete with integrated soundproofing and custom cabinetry designed to house instruments, sheet music, a piano, and a concealed sound system — allowing the family’s love of music to be fully supported without visual clutter. Throughout the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished, and new decorative lighting and upgraded recessed lighting were installed to elevate both ambiance and functionality. On the bedroom floor, every space received a refresh. Each bedroom was thoughtfully updated with custom wallpaper and wall coverings, while the shared bathroom was fully renovated to incorporate a highly functional laundry area. Durable finishes, smart storage solutions, and a clean layout ensure it works seamlessly for adult children when home while still serving daily needs year-round. The primary bathroom was transformed into a serene retreat designed for daily restoration. A soft neutral palette and layered materials create a calming environment, while half of the space functions as a wet room where the tub and shower share one expansive area. Porcelain tile with a Calacatta marble look delivers timeless elegance without the maintenance of natural stone. Champagne Bronze fixtures complement natural cherry cabinetry — a nod to the homeowner’s passion for woodworking — and thoughtful recessed niches provide clean, hidden storage. Even the attic was elevated to support modern living. Previously underutilized, the space was upgraded to serve as a dedicated home office for the homeowner, who works there daily. Improved lighting, finishes, and function transformed it into a productive and comfortable retreat tucked away from the main living areas. Integrated technology plays a key role throughout the home. A Control4 smart home automation system was implemented to seamlessly manage sound, lighting, and comfort. Custom blinds, drapery, and upholstery were carefully coordinated and fabricated to complement each space, adding softness and cohesion from room to room. This project represents more than a renovation — it is a full reimagining of how the home supports gathering, creativity, comfort, and daily life. Every floor was thoughtfully considered. Every space was elevated. And the result is a sophisticated yet welcoming home designed to serve this family beautifully for years to come.

Meet Don Fuego—a bold, luxurious, and unforgettable experience. ? Bringing this vision to life was an incredible journey alongside talented vendors and artists. We began designing Don Fuego at the start of 2024, keeping four key elements at the forefront: Moody, Sophisticated, Bold, and Memorable. Inspired by Día de los Muertos, this space pays homage to those who are no longer with us physically but remain with us spiritually. Every design choice reflects this essence—deep, rich textures, dramatic lighting, and custom elements that make Don Fuego a true work of art. One of the focal points is the custom-designed checkout counter, featuring a striking porcelain slab that embodies everything Don Fuego stands for: fire, intensity, and individuality. The moment we saw it, we knew it was destined for this space. Design is all about the details, and Don Fuego is no exception. From late-night idea exchanges to meticulous material selections, every element was chosen with intention. We introduced texture through limewash, mimicking the organic feel of a grave, and Roman clay, sculpted into arches reminiscent of traditional Mexican architecture. Lighting is the jewelry of a space, and in Don Fuego, it sets the mood. We layered task, decorative, ambient, and accent lighting to create an immersive atmosphere. One of our favorite details? A light fixture inspired by the cascarón, a cracked egg symbolizing good luck and prosperity in Mexican culture. The moment we discovered it, we knew it belonged here—to bring blessings to our clients and everyone who steps inside this curated experience. Don Fuego isn’t just a space—it’s a feeling, a story, a tribute. ✨

This small space received a big transformation. It began as a small office, and became a small but luxurious bathroom, complete with marble countertops, bronze undermount sink, steam shower, and fully custom cabinets.

A fresh updated foyer is the highlight of this home. In Birmingham, Michigan and completed in April 2025, we focused on the staircase and foyer as the very first step. The renovation began with the installation of new wood floors, both herringbone and straight install, and two completely new staircases. With its lighter, fresher white oak floor as the foundation, new balustrades and railings were installed, new stair treads with white painted risers were chosen, and the look is both modern and clean. The newel post ties in with the modern craftsman style of the home while being sleek and transitional in its style. We placed new modern sconces on both flights of stairs, and paired it with a modern glass chandelier. For the finishing touch, a mauve and lavender Missoni floor covering is used for entry rugs and stair runners. A bespoke modern bench echoes this pattern in its white chevron print. The result is a clean and crisp home to welcome this executive back at end of a busy day.

This main floor makeover began with removing a wall between the galley kitchen and the family room, removing a false kitchen ceiling and installing a double sliding glass door to the deck. Two double hung windows were added to the dining room and living room. An arch top window over the living room window adds a decorative touch and lets in additional natural light. The client had a blue leather sectional she wanted to keep so blue was repeated in the granite and in the hand blown blue art glass pendant lights that are hung over the bar. A scalloped foyer light with a white glass shade illuminates a formerly dark entryway.

I was hired by my husband’s clients who purchased his listing in North La Verne. It’s a single story pool home with a secluded driveway, nestled in the Mountain Springs Estates gated community. The owner’s have young children, so they wanted furnishings that were family friendly, comfortable and could grow with them throughout the years. This project was especially fun for me because they really let me have free reign! Before I began helping with the project, they had refinished the fireplaces and took down a wall in between the existing living and dining rooms. The living room had no furnishings in it and was the perfect blank canvas. The family room also was pretty bare with only a sectional grounding the space. I sourced and selected furnishings and decor from a variety of stores such as, Living Spaces, Pottery Barn, Ballard, Joss & Main and Overstock. We considered using store bought drapes, but in the end, I had my drape guy make us some beautiful custom, inverted pleat drapes, that ended up being not much more expensive than store bought drapes would have been. After getting to know the client’s and getting a feeling for their style, I was able to run with with my ideas and put together a comfortable, inviting, family friendly home. Next, we’re going to start working on their kitchen and outdoor living space.

Another successful remodel! This home featured a large but dated and dysfunctional kitchen and an oddly configured master bath, which was in desperate need of a complete rework. After meeting with the homeowners to discuss their desires and needs for the space, Mireworks was able to provide them with multiple design options. Once our clients reviewed and decided on a combination of the options, a preliminary design was developed and reviewed in the 3D. Detailed plans were prepared, and work began. We could not be more pleased with the finished product!

What a joy to bring this exciting renovation to a loyal client: a family of 6 that has called this Highland Park house, “home” for over 25 years. This relationship began in 2017 when we designed their living room, girls’ bedrooms, powder room, and in-home office. We were thrilled when they entrusted us again with their kitchen, family room, dining room, and laundry area design. Their first floor became our JSDG playground… Our priority was to bring fresh, flowing energy to the family’s first floor. We started by removing partial walls to create a more open floor plan and transformed a once huge fireplace into a modern bar set up. We reconfigured a stunning, ventless fireplace and oriented it floor to ceiling tile in the family room. Our second priority was to create an outdoor space for safe socializing during the pandemic, as we executed this project during the thick of it. We designed the entire outdoor area with the utmost intention and consulted on the gorgeous outdoor paint selections. Stay tuned for photos of this outdoors space on the site soon! Overall, this project was a true labor of love. We are grateful to again bring beauty, flow and function to this beloved client’s warm home.

This main floor makeover began with removing a wall between the galley kitchen and the family room, removing a false kitchen ceiling and installing a double sliding glass door to the deck. Two double hung windows were added to the dining room and living room. An arch top window over the living room window adds a decorative touch and lets in additional natural light. The client had a blue leather sectional she wanted to keep so blue was repeated in the granite and in the hand blown blue art glass pendant lights that are hung over the bar. A scalloped foyer light with a white glass shade illuminates a formerly dark entryway.

Tradition Outdoor Living began this project as this client’s home was under construction. The customer decided to add their desired shade structure before the house was finished, however, the builder was not interested in adding the covered patio to the original house plans. Tradition Outdoor Living created design drawings of the covered patio to add to their home and attained all necessary building permits and HOA approval for the addition. The patio cover addition was designed to look original-to-the-home, with matching stucco finish on the columns and beams, paint, shingles, and gutters. Incorporating stacked veneer stone on the columns to match the front of the home, the exterior addition looks flawlessly original. This seamless addition boasts a tongue and groove ceiling, illuminated by recessed lights with dimming capability and providing a stark contrast to the dark stucco of the exterior. Tradition placed two ceiling fans, selected by the client, for all-day comfortability. The pool-side patio cover invites those enjoying the pool to rest and refresh in the shade!

Total Kitchen Transformation In this comprehensive kitchen makeover, we revitalized the entire space from floor to ceiling, creating a modern and inviting environment that seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic beauty. Flooring and Ceiling We began by installing new tile flooring, providing a resilient and stylish foundation for the kitchen. The ceiling was refreshed to ensure a cohesive and polished look throughout the space. Painting and Cabinetry Freshly painted walls harmonize with the new design elements, enhancing the overall ambiance. We installed European-style pale-pine cabinets, adding a touch of sophistication and brightness. Additionally, a new peninsula featuring a waterfall-edge countertop serves as a striking focal point and offers extra workspace. Countertops and Backsplash Apollo quartz countertops were installed, offering a sleek and durable surface for all culinary activities. The backsplash was updated to complement the countertops, enhancing the overall aesthetic while ensuring easy maintenance. Lighting Enhancements The lighting upgrades are both functional and decorative. Under-cabinet lighting enhances visibility and highlights the new cabinetry and countertops. Elegant pendant lights above the peninsula create a focal point and provide ambient lighting, adding sophistication to the area. New LED recessed lighting in the ceiling ensures the entire space is brightly illuminated, offering energy-efficient, high-quality light for everyday activities. Plumbing & Electrical We upgraded the plumbing system, including the installation of a new sink, to ensure optimal performance and reliability. The electrical systems were also updated to support the new lighting and appliances in the kitchen area, ensuring safety and efficiency. This kitchen transformation showcases a harmonious blend of modern design and practical upgrades, resulting in a space that is both beautiful and highly functional. The thoughtful selection of materials and finishes, combined with quality craftsmanship, has created a kitchen that is sure to be the heart of the home.

The client purchased a mature, small, NAPA Valley vineyard to be their home and for personal enjoyment. Once they began converting their new "hobby" grapes into wine, they soon realized they needed a place to "age" their labors and a place to then enjoy them. They decided to design such a place within the confines of their home where they could entertain family and friends. The structure was modified to allow storage of more than 200 individual bottles, cases, and magnum size bottles. A cask room was added as was a well-appointed tasting room. The storage area is separated from the tasting and social area by a tempered glass doors and windows. The space to be converted was a challenge. No surface was plumb or level, therefore, the remodel involved interior walls, new floors and ceilings. Until these issues were addressed, the beautiful cabinet work, and a complete temperature and humidity control system to store, maintain, and enjoy the wine could not be started. The floors had to be floated out and chases with faux finishes provided for HVAC and electrical. Lighting in the tasting room is provided by a series of recessed and puck lights. The bar/counter area is highlighted by a custom, Tiffany style chandelier. Enough space was left in front of the bar to accommodate two serving tables for food and snacks, with plenty of room to move about the space. Discreetly hidden behind the bar is a large capacity cooler that can chill several bottles at once. The bar is capped with eight lineal feet of Calcutta Gold Marble and sports a brass foot rail. The bar has grape panels between Acanthus Corbels and the bottle storage cabinet areas are a unique blend of Acanthus overlays under precisely cut and mitered grape design crown molding over and around a cleverly designed bottle storage system. Traffic flow is achieved through the multiple points of entry through any of three pairs of 6' custom double doors which, when weather permitting, can remain open while entertaining. The host and hostess can attend food and beverage service from behind and around the bar through a separate doorway. The temperature controlled cask storage area is large enough for the clients' current needs, and can accommodate a larger number of casks should the need arise. The floor and walls of the cask room are designed for easy maintenance.. Both rooms are delightfully decorated with earthen tone faux finishes on walls, ceilings and floors reminiscent of a nonspecific European wine making region. This effect is extended to the soffits in the tasting room. A unique wine racking system is easily stored, providing even greater ability to maintain and move about the storage area.

From Attic to Awesome Many of the classic Tudor homes in Minneapolis are defined as 1 ½ stories. The ½ story is actually an attic; a space just below the roof and with a rough floor often used for storage and little more. The owners were looking to turn their attic into about 900 sq. ft. of functional living/bedroom space with a big bath, perfect for hosting overnight guests. This was a challenging project, considering the plan called for raising the roof and adding two large shed dormers. A structural engineer was consulted, and the appropriate construction measures were taken to address the support necessary from below, passing the required stringent building codes. The remodeling project took about four months and began with reframing many of the roof support elements and adding closed cell spray foam insulation throughout to make the space warm and watertight during cold Minnesota winters, as well as cool in the summer. You enter the room using a stairway enclosed with a white railing that offers a feeling of openness while providing a high degree of safety. A short hallway leading to the living area features white cabinets with shaker style flat panel doors – a design element repeated in the bath. Four pairs of South facing windows above the cabinets let in lots of South sunlight all year long. The 130 sq. ft. bath features soaking tub and open shower room with floor-to-ceiling 2-inch porcelain tiling. The custom heated floor and one wall is constructed using beautiful natural stone. The shower room floor is also the shower’s drain, giving this room an open feeling while providing the ultimate functionality. The other half of the bath consists of a toilet and pedestal sink flanked by two white shaker style cabinets with Granite countertops. A big skylight over the tub and another north facing window brightens this room and highlights the tiling with a shade of green that’s pleasing to the eye. The rest of the remodeling project is simply a large open living/bedroom space. Perhaps the most interesting feature of the room is the way the roof ties into the ceiling at many angles – a necessity because of the way the home was originally constructed. The before and after photos show how the construction method included the maximum amount of interior space, leaving the room without the “cramped” feeling too often associated with this kind of remodeling project. Another big feature of this space can be found in the use of skylights. A total of six skylights – in addition to eight South-facing windows – make this area warm and bright during the many months of winter when sunlight in Minnesota comes at a premium. The main living area offers several flexible design options, with space that can be used with bedroom and/or living room furniture with cozy areas for reading and entertainment. Recessed lighting on dimmers throughout the space balances daylight with room light for just the right atmosphere. The space is now ready for decorating with original artwork and furnishings. How would you furnish this space?

Casa Sunset began as a decoration project that quickly evolved into a full remodeling venture. Designed during the pandemic, the focus was on home entertainment, working from home and the use of materials that were warm, inviting and textural to compliment the extraordinary views of the water and the Miami skyline. The result included a flexible room used as home office and guest bedroom. Pocket doors were incorporated to create a direct connection to the main living area and multiply the entertaining space when larger groups were gathered. A wooden “cube“, constructed of vertical walnut slats in the center of the apartment, provides warmth and a focal point shared by every space. This element served to concealed the pocket doors to the office and provided a niche to recess the TV and general entertainment equipment for a clean and refined look. Walnut panels were also used in the Master Bedroom to conceal the door of the walking-in- closet, this time playing with a more intimate and darker palette in the sleeping quarters and exposed bathroom.

From Attic to Awesome Many of the classic Tudor homes in Minneapolis are defined as 1 ½ stories. The ½ story is actually an attic; a space just below the roof and with a rough floor often used for storage and little more. The owners were looking to turn their attic into about 900 sq. ft. of functional living/bedroom space with a big bath, perfect for hosting overnight guests. This was a challenging project, considering the plan called for raising the roof and adding two large shed dormers. A structural engineer was consulted, and the appropriate construction measures were taken to address the support necessary from below, passing the required stringent building codes. The remodeling project took about four months and began with reframing many of the roof support elements and adding closed cell spray foam insulation throughout to make the space warm and watertight during cold Minnesota winters, as well as cool in the summer. You enter the room using a stairway enclosed with a white railing that offers a feeling of openness while providing a high degree of safety. A short hallway leading to the living area features white cabinets with shaker style flat panel doors – a design element repeated in the bath. Four pairs of South facing windows above the cabinets let in lots of South sunlight all year long. The 130 sq. ft. bath features soaking tub and open shower room with floor-to-ceiling 2-inch porcelain tiling. The custom heated floor and one wall is constructed using beautiful natural stone. The shower room floor is also the shower’s drain, giving this room an open feeling while providing the ultimate functionality. The other half of the bath consists of a toilet and pedestal sink flanked by two white shaker style cabinets with Granite countertops. A big skylight over the tub and another north facing window brightens this room and highlights the tiling with a shade of green that’s pleasing to the eye. The rest of the remodeling project is simply a large open living/bedroom space. Perhaps the most interesting feature of the room is the way the roof ties into the ceiling at many angles – a necessity because of the way the home was originally constructed. The before and after photos show how the construction method included the maximum amount of interior space, leaving the room without the “cramped” feeling too often associated with this kind of remodeling project. Another big feature of this space can be found in the use of skylights. A total of six skylights – in addition to eight South-facing windows – make this area warm and bright during the many months of winter when sunlight in Minnesota comes at a premium. The main living area offers several flexible design options, with space that can be used with bedroom and/or living room furniture with cozy areas for reading and entertainment. Recessed lighting on dimmers throughout the space balances daylight with room light for just the right atmosphere. The space is now ready for decorating with original artwork and furnishings. How would you furnish this space?

A desire for more space and an updated look in their 1960’s home were the driving forces for the Cops family’s new bathroom remodels. We began with a great design by Tamara Stratton relocating a hall bathroom which allowed us to combine the former hall bath space with the master, essentially doubling it. We added more lighting, updated finishes, a new, round window in the guest bath with water jetted cut tile, Pental Quartz countertops, Starphire shower glass enclosure, a floating shower bench and a linen storage cabinet with decorative grids. In addition to the two bathrooms, we also turned a guest bedroom into a brand new office space with custom cabinetry and recessed lighting. The Cops family is now enjoying their new space and loving their home even more.

The view of the lake as seen from the client's yard at the top of the hill. Wow! Showcased in this project is a “Lakeside Landscape” created for a homeowner who purchased an old vacant lot on the banks of Lake Erie on the near west side of Cleveland. The lot was attractive given its location and potential for lakeside access, yet it presented some major challenges. First and foremost, the lay of the land was unfavorable, dropping 50 feet from the front of the house to the lake in just 175 linear feet. Erosion wasn’t the only concern in this case, as the space also needed to be functional. The result was over 1300 tons of locally-mined sandstone top rock and a strategic placement of each boulder to create a winding grass path to the lake and tiered entertaining spaces. One such space serves as a natural bluestone patio for unparalleled views of the lake, complimented by a decorative fountain sculpted by a local artist. The lower space is used as a secluded fire pit carved into the hillside with a bench overlooking the western horizon to catch the spectacular Lake Erie sunsets. The addition of 34 natural sandstone steps from the top patio to a reinforced concrete break wall meanders through a landscape with over 625 flowering trees, shrubs and perennials. Below the surface is a series of drains, tile, low-voltage lighting, and irrigation, all designed to maximize every square foot of usable space. What began as a cliff ended as a unique lakeside living space used for recreation, entertaining, and more importantly, as a retreat for family and friends alike.

Rooftopia developed and built a truly one of a kind rooftop paradise on two roof levels at this Michigan Ave residence. Our inspiration came from the gorgeous historical architecture of the building. Our design and development process began about a year before the project was permitted and could begin construction. Our installation teams mobilized over 100 individual pieces of steel & ipe pergola by hand through a small elevator and stair access for assembly and fabrication onsite. We integrated a unique steel screen pattern into the design surrounding a loud utility area and added a highly regarded product called Acoustiblok to achieve significant noise reduction. The custom 18 foot bar ledge has 360° views of the city skyline and lake Michigan. The luxury outdoor kitchen maximizes the options with a built in grill, dishwasher, ice maker, refrigerator and sink. The day bed is a soft oasis in the sea of buildings. Large planters emphasize the grand entrance, flanking new limestone steps and handrails, and soften the cityscape with a mix of lush perennials and annuals. A small green roof space adds to the overall aesthetic and attracts pollinators to assist with the client's veggie garden. Truly a dream for relaxing, outdoor dining and entertaining!

What a joy to bring this exciting renovation to a loyal client: a family of 6 that has called this Highland Park house, “home” for over 25 years. This relationship began in 2017 when we designed their living room, girls’ bedrooms, powder room, and in-home office. We were thrilled when they entrusted us again with their kitchen, family room, dining room, and laundry area design. Their first floor became our JSDG playground… Our priority was to bring fresh, flowing energy to the family’s first floor. We started by removing partial walls to create a more open floor plan and transformed a once huge fireplace into a modern bar set up. We reconfigured a stunning, ventless fireplace and oriented it floor to ceiling tile in the family room. Our second priority was to create an outdoor space for safe socializing during the pandemic, as we executed this project during the thick of it. We designed the entire outdoor area with the utmost intention and consulted on the gorgeous outdoor paint selections. Stay tuned for photos of this outdoors space on the site soon! Overall, this project was a true labor of love. We are grateful to again bring beauty, flow and function to this beloved client’s warm home.