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

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.

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. ✨

Richard and Monica of Huntley, IL, needed to make better use of their kitchen as well as more storage for pots, pans, and countertop appliances. Their space was laid out unconventionally, making cooking a challenge. A triangular nook held their refrigerator, hard-to-reach cabinets, and a cramped pantry. They needed to find a solution, so they searched Facebook for home remodeling companies in their area. Soon they found Advance Design Studio’s profile and were immediately impressed. “Advance Design was the first and last studio I contacted,” Richard said. Richard called Advance Design and felt an immediate connection with Project Designer Nicole. She was knowledgeable and thorough and offered many unique solutions to their kitchen layout problem. A week later, Nicole came out to their home to meet the couple. They talked about their kitchen remodeling project and told Nicole what they wanted in their dream kitchen. Nicole saw that the kitchen had weird angles that hindered the cabinets you could use. She knew that designing a space that met both the client’s needs and dreams would be challenging. Nicole worked with Richard and Monica to create an innovative design. When the couple came out to Advance Design Studio in Gilberts, they were blown away by the 3D illustrations Nicole showed them. “I incorporated a hidden pantry cabinet to not only be a cool feature but also allowed me to square off the walls to gain more cabinet space,” Nicole said. The hidden pantry added storage and squared off the strange triangular nook, creating a more traditional and functional kitchen layout. With the layout problems solved, they worked together to select materials. Richard and Monica wanted something brighter than their previous dark brown kitchen. They chose a combination of blue and white cabinetry with a white subway tile backsplash and white quartz countertops. The design was finalized, the materials were selected. It was time to begin construction. One fear most homeowners have when beginning a home remodel is dust. Advance Design uses BuildClean HEPA filters to eliminate dust throughout the house while construction is going on. Project Manager Jason and his crew created temporary walls and cleaned up after every day of work. “We were very impressed with how clean and organized the crew kept things while the remodeling process was underway,” Richard said. The result is just what Richard and Monica envisioned when they began the process. Richard’s love for cooking can be explored through all-new Thermador appliances, featuring an easy-to-use induction cooktop, built-in double oven, and spacious refrigerator. Matte black hardware contrasts the bright white backsplash, countertops, and cabinets, while the stunning blue cabinets complement the dark hardwood floor and stainless-steel appliances. The dual pendant light fixtures over the reconfigured island are eye-catching and add necessary lighting. This Huntley kitchen renovation turned out better than Richard and Monica hoped. Their experience with Advance Design’s Common Sense Remodeling process has them thinking about other projects they could do in the future. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

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.

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.

Richard and Monica of Huntley, IL, needed to make better use of their kitchen as well as more storage for pots, pans, and countertop appliances. Their space was laid out unconventionally, making cooking a challenge. A triangular nook held their refrigerator, hard-to-reach cabinets, and a cramped pantry. They needed to find a solution, so they searched Facebook for home remodeling companies in their area. Soon they found Advance Design Studio’s profile and were immediately impressed. “Advance Design was the first and last studio I contacted,” Richard said. Richard called Advance Design and felt an immediate connection with Project Designer Nicole. She was knowledgeable and thorough and offered many unique solutions to their kitchen layout problem. A week later, Nicole came out to their home to meet the couple. They talked about their kitchen remodeling project and told Nicole what they wanted in their dream kitchen. Nicole saw that the kitchen had weird angles that hindered the cabinets you could use. She knew that designing a space that met both the client’s needs and dreams would be challenging. Nicole worked with Richard and Monica to create an innovative design. When the couple came out to Advance Design Studio in Gilberts, they were blown away by the 3D illustrations Nicole showed them. “I incorporated a hidden pantry cabinet to not only be a cool feature but also allowed me to square off the walls to gain more cabinet space,” Nicole said. The hidden pantry added storage and squared off the strange triangular nook, creating a more traditional and functional kitchen layout. With the layout problems solved, they worked together to select materials. Richard and Monica wanted something brighter than their previous dark brown kitchen. They chose a combination of blue and white cabinetry with a white subway tile backsplash and white quartz countertops. The design was finalized, the materials were selected. It was time to begin construction. One fear most homeowners have when beginning a home remodel is dust. Advance Design uses BuildClean HEPA filters to eliminate dust throughout the house while construction is going on. Project Manager Jason and his crew created temporary walls and cleaned up after every day of work. “We were very impressed with how clean and organized the crew kept things while the remodeling process was underway,” Richard said. The result is just what Richard and Monica envisioned when they began the process. Richard’s love for cooking can be explored through all-new Thermador appliances, featuring an easy-to-use induction cooktop, built-in double oven, and spacious refrigerator. Matte black hardware contrasts the bright white backsplash, countertops, and cabinets, while the stunning blue cabinets complement the dark hardwood floor and stainless-steel appliances. The dual pendant light fixtures over the reconfigured island are eye-catching and add necessary lighting. This Huntley kitchen renovation turned out better than Richard and Monica hoped. Their experience with Advance Design’s Common Sense Remodeling process has them thinking about other projects they could do in the future. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

This whole-home transformation began with a vision: breathe new life into a stunning Mediterranean-influenced residence while honoring its architectural character, including soaring vaulted ceilings, dark wood beams, and graceful arched windows. The complete kitchen remodel introduced a white shaker cabinetry suite, a natural white oak island, stone backsplash, panel-ready appliances, and custom linen pendant lights, seamlessly flowing into a redesigned dining area anchored by a custom built-in arched glass-front china cabinet and rattan chandelier. The master bathroom refresh brought spa-like serenity with a painted barrel vault ceiling in soft sky blue, a sculptural petal flush mount, and refined finishes that feel both timeless and tranquil. Throughout the living room, dining room, master bedroom, and guest room, every furnishing was thoughtfully selected: a blue velvet sofa, organic wood coffee table, cane bed, French settee, and chinoiserie accents layered against a warm neutral palette of cream, camel, and dusty blue. Custom draperies tailored in soft linen with delicate trim details were designed and installed in every room, tying the home together with a cohesive, light-filled elegance. A whole-home paint refresh completed the transformation, unifying every space under a palette that is warm, sophisticated, and unmistakably livable. The result: a home that feels curated, not decorated, and entirely, beautifully theirs.

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.

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?

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

Ningbo Liangzhu World is located in the core area of Liangzhu Cultural Industry Park. This project used 7000 square meters dassoXTR rain clad siding in different buildings. it began in 2013 and finished in 2014.

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!

This kitchen transformation began with a dream for a light and bright kitchen that functions beautifully in a classic style that will never feel tired or dated. The homeowners never looked back as we tore out the old red linoleum floor and the wall that separated the kitchen from the dining area. A door connecting the kitchen to the bedroom corridor was closed off to maximize the counter and storage space and a new door was added to an adjacent office/guest bedroom to provide easy access to the kitchen. Snow white cabinets, white marble quartz and glossy white ceramic backsplash tile was paired with warm woods and revere pewter walls to create a bright yet inviting space. Deep drawers were chosen for plate and glassware storage. Trash and heavy duty butcher block cutting board rollouts offer convenience. A built in floor to ceiling pantry includes rollout drawers for easy access to dry food storage. An island microwave makes the task of quickly heating food accessible to even the youngest family members. Our favorite details include a gorgeous live edge buffet counter, cozy built-in eating nook with an heirloom dining table and a budget friendly dining nook pendant with a custom diffuser and cord added by a local light lighting shop. The best part about this kitchen transformation was seeing the joy on the family’s faces when it was complete! This kitchen will be cherished for years and years to come! Interior Design: Jennifer Gardner Design Photographer: Marcela Winspear

Our clients wanted to open up their living space for better flow so that they could entertain friends and family in a more functional space. They wanted to remove the wall separating the family room and the kitchen and completely gut the kitchen and start over. This also entailed removing the built-in bar area and breakfast nook. They weren’t sure if they wanted to keep the skylight or if it would even work with the new layout or not. The various ceiling heights were also going to be a challenge in the family room and breakfast nook. They also wanted to explore options for a dry bar and/or a coffee bar area. They wanted to keep their new kitchen classic, simple, and clean, and they definitely needed design help to see what it was going to look like. We removed the door to the hallway, closed off the pass-through to the wet bar, and moved two doors on the opposite end of the kitchen. Most importantly, we removed the large built-in bookcase wall between the kitchen and living room! The entire kitchen was demolished, and the renovation began. Linen painted Waypoint cabinets were installed with Successi French Gold hardware. Our client picked out gorgeous Sea Pearl quartzite countertops, making this kitchen clean and sophisticated, with a subtle backsplash using Nabi Tundra 3x6 Ceramic Tile to create a slight contrast. A white Platus 33” single-basin farmhouse fireclay kitchen sink with an apron front was put in, giving it that modern farmhouse feel. All new stainless steel Thermador appliances were installed, really making this kitchen pop! To top it off, the skylight remained as-is and worked perfectly with the new layout, sitting directly above the center of the new large island. Two Darlana small lantern island pendants from Visual Comfort were hung to add a simple, decorative touch to the center of their new open kitchen. New built-ins were installed in the dining area, with floor-to-ceiling cabinets on either end for extra storage and glass front cabinets in the center, above a gorgeous coffee bar. Our clients chose a Metrolume Chandelier from Shades of Light to hang over the dining room table and create a warm eating area. This space went from totally closed off and not their style to a beautiful, classic kitchen that our clients absolutely love. Their boys and their dog, Rusty, also love their new, wide-open living space!

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.

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

This deck restoration was a very gratifying project. It began with a concept of replacing all the framing, relocating the stairs and resurfacing the deck. Add in restoring the upper porches and replacing all the sliding doors. Once again we get to do great things with great products, like using durable decking, building materials and quality doors. The windows and decking material give the home owner year round outdoor living with the products we want to stand behind. And who wouldn’t want to stand of a deck with this view. *Images by Richard Leo Johnson.

Amazing bathroom renovation and home remodel. A fresh start for the home began with the renovation of bedrooms and spaces to fill with personalized decor and memories. The bathroom remodel is a perfect place to rest and relax. The stunning stone tile differentiations from the wall to the shower to the floor allow for cohesive contrast and when paired with the stunning gold fictures creates an oasis for the client.