Search results for "Decor began" in Home Design Ideas

Everyone deserves to end the day in a comfortable, tranquil home. And for those with children, it can seem impossible to reconcile the challenges of family life with the need to have a well-designed space. Our client—a financial executive and her family of four—had not considered a design makeover since moving into their apartment, which was more than ten years ago. So when she reached out to Decor Aid, she asked us to modernize and brighten her home, in addition to creating a space for her family to hang out and relax.
The apartment originally featured sunflower-yellow walls and a set of brown suede living room furniture, all of which significantly darkened the space. The living room also did not have sufficient seating options, so the client was improvising seating arrangements when guests would come over.
With no outward facing windows, the living room received little natural light, and so we began the redesign by painting the walls a classic grey, and adding white crown molding.
As a pathway from the front door to the kitchen, the living room functions as a high-traffic area of the home. So we sourced a geometric indoor-outdoor area rug, and established a layout that’s easy to walk through. We also sourced a coffee table from Serena & Lily. Our client has teenage twins, and so we sourced a sturdy sectional couch from Restoration Hardware, and placed it in a corner which was previously being underused.
We hired an electrician to hide all of the cables leading to the media console, and added custom window treatments. In the kitchen, we painted the cabinets a semi-gloss white, and added slate flooring, for a clean, crisp, modern look to match the living room.
The finishing touches included a set of geometric table objects, comfortable throw rugs, and plush high-shine pillows. The final result is a fully functional living room for this family of four.

This room was taken from dismal to fresh and timeless. The design began with an application of off-white paint which served to lighten and brighten the space. Ceilings, from the front door to the great room, receive special treatment with blue paint in a shade that brought the sky inside, expanding the feeling of spaciousness. Furnishings and draperies in multiple shades of blue, from aqua to indigo, feel fresh and pretty. The sectional provides plenty of lounging space for a growing family in a classic design that is sure to pass the test of time.

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.
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An Ohio family in search of a place to enjoy the Portuguese coast acquired a four-bedroom apartment just outside the center of Cascais. Our studio was engaged to turn a compartmented interior into a holiday residence for a household that gathers in numbers: one that could seat everyone at once and still hold the ease and lightness of a home by the beach.
The original plan included a kitchen and laundry room sealed off from the living room, floor finishes and levels that changed from threshold to threshold, and bathrooms in varying styles. Work began by redefining the alignments and circulation. The principal transformation was the opening of the kitchen, creating a more generous social setting centered on a bespoke island fitted with storage and seating.
The interior takes its cues from the building’s geometric façade, which projects and recedes in volumes and voids. Bespoke joinery in oak and lacquer carries continuity and order through the apartment. Concealed storage runs throughout: at the entrance, in the dining area, along the living area, and beneath built-in benches. The laundry is merged into the kitchen behind perforated doors for ventilation while keeping the service area discreet. Behind the sofa, a console slips a workspace into the living area without conceding its openness.
Curved elements answer the rectilinear architecture; artisanal glazed vertical tiles repeat from the backsplashes onto custom side tables. The palette stays deliberately narrow; the muted oak and lacquer are joined by a softened timber floor, Portuguese Lioz stone, and walls painted to the color of bare plaster. Existing doors and baseboards were repainted in a warm light gray that draws the original elements into the language of the new interior. Upholstery and decorative accents hint at the terracotta, sky blue, and yellow of the façade.
The bedrooms are set with upholstered headboards on oak frames, bedside tables that extend those outlines, and wardrobes fit for a long stay. Locally made rugs, bedcovers, and throw pillows soften the composition. In the bathrooms, the plans were reorganized and the showers enlarged. Lioz was used for the counters and sinks, shelves, shower bases, and bathtub surround, with microcement bringing a soothing warmth to the walls, and storage in floating cabinets. Deeper in tone than the rest of the apartment yet never dim, they are quietly elegant rooms made for lingering — taking one’s time getting ready, or unwinding at the end of a day.
PHOTOGRAPHY: © ALEXANDER BOGORODSKIY

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!

This open airy condo overlooking Kempenfelt Bay in Barrie, captures the essence of easy living by combining a harmonious balance of warmth & comfort in a sophisticated contemporary style. Its owners delight in calling it home.
We began this renovation project with a redesign of the interior footprint to permit more efficient use of space and effortless movement throughout. From tear out to completion, the usual challenges of steel stud & concrete construction and special condo bylaw requirements were easily handled by our team of certified professionals.
The creative use of millwork beams provided hidden channels to conceal electrical wiring and thus permit the addition of ceiling lighting where there had previously been none – a much needed design element for our clients who are avid readers and enjoy their art collection.
All surface materials were chosen to provide high performance and low maintenance as well as delivering a WOW factor aesthetic. This includes the engineered hardwood flooring throughout; the porcelain tile flooring in the three bathrooms and two shower enclosures; granite counters in the kitchen, bathrooms and office credenza; all cabinetry materials; as well as the fabrics on upholstered furniture and area rugs. The right products in the right places for the right reasons!!
Our furniture and cabinetry designs include the creative use of decorative glass; stainless steel; natural stone and custom wood and innovative laminate finishes. Soft draperies frame the large picture windows subtly drawing attention to the wonderful waterfront views in seamless fashion. Our attention to detail built on a foundation of good design and integration of quality well-chosen materials is truly a reflection of our client’s chic and balanced sense of style and commitment to live with uncluttered easy but comfortable elegance.

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.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

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.

What began as a renovation project morphed into a new house, driven by the natural beauty of the site.
The new structures are perfectly aligned with the coastline, and take full advantage of the views of ocean, islands, and shoals. The location is within walking distance of town and its amenities, yet miles away in the privacy it affords. The house is nestled on a nicely wooded lot, giving the residence screening from the street, with an open meadow leading to the ocean on the rear of the lot.
The design concept was driven by the serenity of the site, enhanced by textures of trees, plantings, sand and shoreline. The newly constructed house sits quietly in a location advantageously positioned to take full advantage of natural light and solar orientations. The visual calm is enhanced by the natural material: stone, wood, and metal throughout the home.
The main structures are comprised of traditional New England forms, with modern connectors serving to unify the structures. Each building is equally suited for single floor living, if that future needs is ever necessary. Unique too is an underground connection between main house and an outbuilding.
With their flowing connections, no room is isolated or ignored; instead each reflects a different level of privacy and social interaction.
Just as there are layers to the exterior in beach, field, forest and oceans, the inside has a layered approach. Textures in wood, stone, and neutral colors combine with the warmth of linens, wools, and metals. Personality and character of the interiors and its furnishings are tailored to the client’s lifestyle. Rooms are arranged and organized in an intersection of public and private spaces. The quiet palette within reflects the nature outside, enhanced with artwork and accessories.

These South Shore homeowners desired a fresh look for their kitchen that was efficient and functional with a design worthy of showing off to family and friends. They also wished for more natural light, increased floor area and better countertop work space allowing for ease of preparation and cooking. The Renovisions team began the remodel by installing a larger (5’) window over the sink area which overlooks the beautiful backyard. Additional countertop workspace was achieved by utilizing the corner and installing a GE induction cooktop and stainless steel hood. This solution was spot on spectacular!
Renovisions discussed the importance of adding lighting fixtures and the homeowners agreed. Under cabinet lighting was installed under wall cabinets with switch as well as two pendants over the peninsula and one pendant over the sink. It also made good design sense to add additional recessed ceiling fixtures with LED lights and trims that blend well with the ceiling.
The project came together beautifully and boasts gorgeous shaker styled cherry cabinetry with glass mullian doors. The separate desk area serves as a much needed office/organizational area for keys, mail and electronic charging.
A lovely backsplash of Tuscan-clay-look porcelain tile in 4”x8” brick pattern and diagonal tile with decorative metal-look accent tiles serves an eye-catching design detail. We created interest without being overdone.
A large rectangular under-mounted ‘chef’ sink in stainless steel finish was the way to go here to accommodate larger pots and pans and platters. The creamy color marble like durable yet beautiful quartz countertops created a soft tone for the kitchens overall aesthetic look. Simple, pretty details give the cherry cabinets understated elegance and the mix of textures makes the room feel welcoming.
Our client can’t wait to start preparing her favorite recipes for her family.

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.

We began this beautiful project at the pre-build stage with our clients and managed it from beginning to end. This project is luxury condo living on a golf course. Our client loved all shades of blues, and we incorporated them in each and every room throughout the home. The classy furnishings and cozy decor create a warm, inviting ambience. At the reveal, the wife shared that "I feel like Barbie, and this is my DREAMHOUSE!"
Pamela Harvey Interiors offers interior design services in St. Petersburg and Tampa, and throughout Florida’s Suncoast area, from Tarpon Springs to Naples, including Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Sarasota.

Kitchen remodels are often the most rewarding projects for a homeowner. These new homeowners are starting their journey towards their dream house. Their journey began with this beautiful kitchen remodel. We completely remodeled their kitchen to make it more contemporary and add all the amenities you would expect in a modern kitchen. When we completed this kitchen the couple couldn’t have been happier. From the countertops to the cabinets we were about to give them the kitchen they envisioned. No matter what project we receive we like to see results like this! Contact us today at 1-888-977-9490

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

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.

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

So to begin, we start with an existing kitchen that is outdated and just too neutral for the homeowners. They wanted unity and drama in their space, not mundane confusion! Mismatched appliances – white refrigerator, stainless range, black dishwasher – give a disjointed and unplanned vibe to the room and are crammed together in less than half of the available kitchen space. The beautiful wood floor extends throughout the house, but in the kitchen it falls flat – as the medium gold cabinets and almond tile counters provide no contrast and no interest.
A bank of floor to ceiling cabinets separates the dining area from the kitchen, confining the space in both rooms. Note the massive blank end of the cabinets – in desperation to reduce the scale of this monolith, the homeowners decorated it with a clock and small nick-knacks, but it didn’t help. This is not a welcoming entrance to the kitchen. On the dining side, there is a hutch (with mirrored back), which ostensibly could serve as a buffet, however it is inconvenient to the prep area of the kitchen as it is tucked behind the tall pantry cabinets. And on the opposite wall is a separate wet bar which could serve more conveniently with a more unified kitchen and dining space.
You would think that the large pantry cabinets would be a plus in a kitchen, however their placement and the deep fixed shelves belie any positive contribution.
The looming wall of cabinetry confines the space and is a claustrophobe’s nightmare. Then note the clutter and chaos of storing small food items (normally most of your daily supplies don’t come in giant bulk quantities and sizes) on deep fixed shelves. Nothing really fits and canned goods become lost behind cereal boxes while baking supplies are piled on top of the snacks!
The decision to remodel – the lady of the house wanted her kitchen to reflect the couples’ modern lifestyle. They are passionate people who love to entertain their friends and family – they need an open and accessible space that is both dramatic in bearing and easy to use on a daily basis.
San Luis Kitchen began design by helping the homeowners choose a style and color scheme for their kitchen. The decision was made – a slab style cabinet door in a “Dark Lager” stain on maple wood. Because the homeowners did not want handles on their cabinets, we used a face frame cabinet construction to allow for “finger-pull” opening of the doors and drawers. The face frame is colored black as a contrast to the doors for a bold finish. Dark gray engineered-quartz counters and full height backsplash complete the picture.
Kitchen layout and design is next. The sink remains at the corner window with the dishwasher moved to the left wall – giving space for a 36” range-top and dramatic 42” rectilinear hood. The refrigerator remains in place but is replaced with a black model. The cabinet above it is now 24” deep for a custom look and a built-in microwave/oven combo are placed to the right. Simple-line contemporary trim and uniform black and stainless modern appliances reinforce the linear aesthetic created by the doorstyle and face frame detailing.
In place of the pantry, San Luis Kitchen designed a true buffet – accessible from both kitchen and dining sides. The storage needs are met by upper cabinets, base corner swing-out shelves and drawers, and a tall (adjustable) roll-out shelf unit on the dining side. We added an end wall (with niches) and extended the cabinetry and counter beyond as a welcome to the kitchen. In the dining room glass doors for display items grace the buffet. The wet bar is now visually and functionally joined to the kitchen – matching cabinetry and the more open overall plan tie everything together as a whole.
Now in their new kitchen, the homeowners can prepare, serve, and enjoy a meal with their guests. The mosaic glass backsplash used at the bar adds pizzazz for fun gatherings and an evening’s entertainment.
Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry: Brookhaven's Fairfield

This open airy condo overlooking Kempenfelt Bay in Barrie, captures the essence of easy living by combining a harmonious balance of warmth & comfort in a sophisticated contemporary style. Its owners delight in calling it home.
We began this renovation project with a redesign of the interior footprint to permit more efficient use of space and effortless movement throughout. From tear out to completion, the usual challenges of steel stud & concrete construction and special condo bylaw requirements were easily handled by our team of certified professionals.
The creative use of millwork beams provided hidden channels to conceal electrical wiring and thus permit the addition of ceiling lighting where there had previously been none – a much needed design element for our clients who are avid readers and enjoy their art collection.
All surface materials were chosen to provide high performance and low maintenance as well as delivering a WOW factor aesthetic. This includes the engineered hardwood flooring throughout; the porcelain tile flooring in the three bathrooms and two shower enclosures; granite counters in the kitchen, bathrooms and office credenza; all cabinetry materials; as well as the fabrics on upholstered furniture and area rugs. The right products in the right places for the right reasons!!
Our furniture and cabinetry designs include the creative use of decorative glass; stainless steel; natural stone and custom wood and innovative laminate finishes. Soft draperies frame the large picture windows subtly drawing attention to the wonderful waterfront views in seamless fashion. Our attention to detail built on a foundation of good design and integration of quality well-chosen materials is truly a reflection of our client’s chic and balanced sense of style and commitment to live with uncluttered easy but comfortable elegance.

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. ✨

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.
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