Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

San Marino based clients were interested in developing a property that had been in their family for generations. This was an exciting proposition as it was one of the last surviving bayside double lots on the scenic Coronado peninsula in San Diego. They desired a holiday home that would be a gathering place for their large, close- knit family. San Marino based clients were interested in developing a property that had been in their family for generations. This was an exciting proposition as it was one of the last surviving bayside double lots on the scenic Coronado peninsula in San Diego. They desired a holiday home that would be a gathering place for their large, close-knit family. Facing the Back Bay, overlooking downtown and the Bay Bridge, this property presented us with a unique opportunity to design a vacation home with a dual personality. One side faces a bustling harbor with a constant parade of yachts, cargo vessels and military ships while the other opens onto a deep, quiet contemplative garden. The home’s shingle-style influence carries on the historical Coronado tradition of clapboard and Craftsman bungalows built in the shadow of the great Hotel Del Coronado which was erected at the turn of the last century. In order to create an informal feel to the residence, we devised a concept that eliminated the need for a “front door”. Instead, one walks through the garden and enters the “Great Hall” through either one of two French doors flanking a walk-in stone fireplace. Both two-story bedroom wings bookend this central wood beam vaulted room which serves as the “heart of the home”, and opens to both views. Three sets of stairs are discretely tucked away inside the bedroom wings. In lieu of a formal dining room, the family convenes and dines around a beautiful table and banquette set into a circular window bay off the kitchen which overlooks the lights of the city beyond the harbor. Working with noted interior designer Betty Ann Marshall, we designed a unique kitchen that was inspired by the colors and textures of a fossil the couple found on a honeymoon trip to the quarries of Montana. We set that ancient fossil into a matte glass backsplash behind the professional cook’s stove. A warm library with walnut paneling and a bayed window seat affords a refuge for the family to read or play board games. The couple’s fine craft and folk art collection is on prominent display throughout the house and helps to set an intimate and whimsical tone. Another architectural feature devoted to family is the play room lit by a dramatic cupola which beacons the older grandchildren and their friends. Below the play room is a four car garage that allows the patriarch space to refurbish an antique fire truck, a mahogany launch boat and several vintage cars. Their jet skis and kayaks are housed in another garage designed for that purpose. Lattice covered skylights that allow dappled sunlight to bathe the loggia affords a comfortable refuge to watch the kids swim and gaze out upon the rushing water, the Coronado Bay Bridge and the romantic downtown San Diego skyline. Architect: Ward Jewell Architect, AIA Interior Design: Betty Ann Marshall Construction: Bill Lyons Photographer: Laura Hull Styling: Zale Design Studio

Cantilevered island with Cambria top and white glass pedestal. Horizontal flip-up cabinets. Wood is a combination of dark rift oak in a horizontal grain with mahogany. base cabinets are all-drawer with mahogany finger pulls. glass-tile backsplash mimics bone and tortoise-shell. Michael A. Foley Photography

Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

When well known philanthropist Rachel (Bunny) Mellon passed away in 2014, a key provision of her will was that her beloved Oak Spring Garden estate in in Upperville, Virginia would be converted to a center for the study of horticulture. During her lifetime, Bunny, a devoted gardener, created stunning gardens on the estate, amassed a collection of priceless horticultural manuscripts and even designed the famous White House Rose Garden. One of the challenges of achieving her vision of a center for horticultural learning on her estate was the need to convert the Mellon's existing stables into hotel-style rooms for visiting scholars. Working with Architect Karl Riedel of Leesburg, our Interior Designer Cathleen Gruver, and Peter Crane, President of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation and his wife Elinor, Gruver Cooley transformed spaces that had once housed race horses into comfortable rooms which fit seamlessly with the spirit of the Mellon property. ​ The original barn was designed in 1949 by New York architectural firm Cross and Sons, which was responsible for many notable buildings there. Although the barn's purpose changed dramatically, the exterior facade was maintained as originally conceived by Mr. Mellon. In the interior, all flooring, wainscoting and some millwork was fabricated using Oak Spring Farm grown timber in maple, oak, walnut and poplar. The desks within each room were also fabricated on site using wood grown on the estate. The barn is ADA accessible and 20% of the rooms meet ADA standards. ​ Making comfortable hotel-style rooms required a number of new systems to be integrated into the structure and provided the opportunity to use sustainable best building practices. Geothermal wells were drilled to provide energy efficient low impact heating and cooling. All ductwork is insulated and sealed, icynene insulation is used on all walls and attic areas and ground level floors are insulated with R6 insulation. Low water toilets and low pressure showers are used in each of the new bathrooms, and all windows are high efficiency advanced low e glass. ​ As you view the pictures above, we think you will agree that the Mellon Legacy has been well preserved while moving the property responsibly into a new chapter of its storied history.

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

The light from South Arch side window is focused upon the North wall where there is a large granite fossil. A smaller version of these swimming creatures appears above. Next to these is a cave-like opening where a thyme plant meanders down the rock wall. Other interesting artifacts are included in the design. Photo credits: Dan Drobnick

HDR Remodeling Inc. specializes in classic East Bay homes. Whole-house remodels, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, garage and basement conversions are our specialties. Our start-to-finish process -- from design concept to permit-ready plans to production -- will guide you along the way to make sure your project is completed on time and on budget and take the uncertainty and stress out of remodeling your home. Our philosophy -- and passion -- is to help our clients make their remodeling dreams come true.

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Our clients were an energetic and outgoing couple that loved life, laughter and their family including two well-loved Dachshund dogs. Their home on a lushly treed cul de sac in Manor Park boasts plenty of character, with pockets of rooms devoted to their artistic and musical passions. As a trained chef, the husband proudly and naturally commanded the lions share of the kitchen, leaving little room for his wife’s love of baking and crafting. Fine food, good wine and a myriad of guitars are at the root of their impromptu and casual gatherings. The original design request was to update the kitchen in functionality and appearance. With one look at the adjacent space which was not visible to the kitchen but commanded a stunning view with south facing windows - and this project morphed into combining two separate spaces into one. We opened up the kitchen to incorporate the sunroom and create one large open concept sun-filled happy space with direct access to the rear yard and seating areas. The kitchen was designed to act as one space with clearly delineated zones, where each person could cook autonomously while being together. Additionally, we maintained a soft seating lounge area and a desk for crafting in natural light. At the heart of the kitchen is a 6’ x 8’ solid black cherry island which serves as the social hub for gatherings. We used different materials and textures in each zone to clearly represent the two uniquely individual and dynamic personalities of this couple. A black and white glass mosaic tile backsplash speaks to the glass fused hobby that is created in the same space while creating a dramatic statement of a playful artistic expression. The custom designed wine niches introduce abstract rectilinear forms. The use of rich materials, two-toned cabinets, custom floating black cherry shelving and a classic colour palette of black and white act as a backdrop or canvas, which intentionally allows room for each personal expression to shine. We doubled the storage capacity within the kitchen which is still discreet and still allows for an abundance of glass front interior lit cabinets to showcase their treasured collections.

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates. To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling. In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs. The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact. As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

his Solana Beach home with ocean views was transformed to maximize the living area, creating a great room experience for a young family. The results emphasize the family bonds, connecting the cook with their friends and family members. After removing the dividing wall and opening the rooms, the home was reimagined through space planning resulting in a creative family hub. Resurfacing the fireplace gave birth to a modern focal point. The residence is now flooded with natural light, capturing the energizing color palette, rich with bold colors and layered with textures. Photos by Jon Upson

ELIMINATING ECHOS IN A LUXURY POOL HOUSE Innovative & Unobtrusive Acoustic Treatments Engaged By WSDG-Brasil BELO HORIZONTE, BRASIL: How do you keep your pool house from reverberating like a gymnasium? For the owners of a luxurious villa set amidst of one of Brasil’s most breathtaking landscapes, the views and the pastoral silence were priceless. A wide expanse of windows surrounding the infinite lap pool draw attention to the spectacular mountains and gardens framing this opulent weekend residence. Intrusive echoes of laughter and music were unacceptable. The critical acoustical designs devised by WSDG Brasil for the villa’s home theater and other living spaces were inspired by the firms’ professional recording studio expertise. Inhibiting sound from invading or escaping sensitive listening areas is a WSDG specialty. The enclosed pool and spa area, however presented uniquely troubling waters. Especially challenging was the requirement that the acoustical treatments unobtrusively compliment the sumptuous custom finishes. In addition to the 46’ long, 10’ wide lap pool, the 2100 sq. ft structure includes a gym, Jacuzzi and wet bar, bounded by three walls of double height windows. A movable glass sealing system was installed to maintain interior warmth during the cool, mountain region evenings. Prognosis? Warm, but noisy. Here, professional recording studio design techniques provided solutions. Each window, including an expansive skylight grid comprised of 24 individual 7’x5’motorized Italian glass panels, was fitted with two layers of Clearsorber™ Foil special micro-perforated transparent foil with 1” of air space separating the layers. Mounting the foil layers 2” below the glass skylight insured optimal sound absorption. Developed in Germany, these innovative translucent plastic sheets absorb medium and high frequency reverberation to resolve sonic reflection issues. “We have hung panels of this material in front of glass windows in recording studios,” explains WSDG Brasil, GM Renato Cipriano. “They have proved very effective in helping us ‘tune’ rooms without obstructing views. Now they are proving equally helpful in this residential application.” The foil’s full transparency insures unimpeded views and eliminates traditional pool house reverberation. Happily, the product also serves as a UV ray filtering system. Cipriano reports that special attention was also devoted to the pool house floor which is situated over a large machine room. “A number of generators, pumps and air conditioning units live beneath the pool,” he says. “Thanks to our acoustic treatments, they hum away doing their jobs without making their presence known to the guests.” Morro do Chapeau was designed by celebrated Brasilian architect Eduarda Correa. The extensive A/V installation was designed and installed by Versao Brasileira, a leading Belo Horizonte-based high-end home theater specialist. “We have participated on a number of challenging projects with Versao Brasileira,” Cipriano concludes. “They are extremely knowledgeable and we welcome the opportunity to collaborated with them.” ### Photos: Five views of the Morro do Chapeau pool house in Belo Horizonte, Brasil. All glass windows including the expansive skylight are insulated by a special micro perforated transparent foil to eliminate audio reverberation and also serve as a UV ray filtering system. Please credit photos by Jomar Braganca