Nothing more stunning than a pincushion in full bloom. This enviable property sits perched on the bluff directly across from the ocean in the La Selva Beach neighborhood of Aptos. Project goals included overall beautification via plants with year-round color and showy blooms, more privacy on the patio and deck, and a way to deter frequent dog-walkers from cutting through the garden. We accomplished this last goal by building up soil mounds behind retaining walls and using taller plants at the apex. Privacy for the deck was achieved by the addition of sleek stucco walls. Project features a large swath of a walkable, drought-tolerant grass alternative. Special care was devoted to selecting plants that can withstand the wind, fog and salt-spray that occur near the ocean. South African and Australian plants figure prominently into the plant palette and create a vibrant complimentary color scheme against the ocean backdrop. Who wouldn't want to spend time in this ocean-view garden?

www.danielbergerphotography.com, www.councellcraftsman.com
Large transitional single-wall medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, two islands, white cabinets, marble countertops, multicolored backsplash and matchstick tile backsplash

Amy Aidinis Hirsch
Bedroom - traditional bedroom idea in New York

The lake views from this townhome’s master bathroom are panoramic and breathtaking. Unfortunately, the original layout of the bathroom itself left much to be desired. An old whirlpool tub took up too much floor space, the shower stall was too small and the room itself was cramped and dysfunctional. The homeowners’ goals called for improving the room’s traffic flow, creating a larger and more functional shower stall with dual use, taking full advantage of the lake view and bringing a Romanesque theme to the space. The first step in the renovation was to replace the old whirlpool with a small corner tub that took up half the space. The rest of that side of the room is devoted to the beautiful Roman-style shower stall with double rain shower, double body sprays and built in niches, arch headers and a heavy glass enclosure. The stalls creative use of mosaic tiles and medallion has made this shower stall the jewel of this project. The vanity uses dark cherry cabinetry which complements the cream rustic tumbled marble and oil rubbed bronze fixtures. A beautiful, curved slab of exotic marble was cut for the countertop and two hand-crafted vessel sinks made from tumbled stone are on top of it. The homeowners have never been happier to use their master bathroom .They get to have their own Roman-style bath experience by taking a few steps from their bedroom. Looking out of this gorgeous bathroom overlooking the lake just cannot be expressed with words.

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

This enviable property sits perched on the bluff directly across from the ocean in the La Selva Beach neighborhood of Aptos. Project goals included overall beautification via plants with year-round color and showy blooms, more privacy on the patio and deck, and a way to deter frequent dog-walkers from cutting through the garden. We accomplished this last goal by building up soil mounds behind retaining walls and using taller plants at the apex. Privacy for the deck was achieved by the addition of sleek stucco walls. Project features a large swath of a walkable, drought-tolerant grass alternative. Special care was devoted to selecting plants that can withstand the wind, fog and salt-spray that occur near the ocean. South African and Australian plants figure prominently into the plant palette and create a vibrant complimentary color scheme against the ocean backdrop. Who wouldn't want to spend time in this ocean-view garden?

The homeowner grew up in this Sands Point house. When finally her parents decided to move out of the large home they raised their family, the daughter and her family loved the idea of “coming home.” However, the home needed work. The wall bisecting the home lengthwise between the kitchen and dining room was taken down making room for an ideal, expansive kitchen with eat-in area. Other elements were essential to the reconfiguration including moving the stairway to the lower level, thanks to architect, Joe Bello. Starck was asked to design the new kitchen with earthy qualities bringing in the lady of the house’s devotion to gardening, which can now be seen front to back. Another requirement was for a large center island providing maximal seating for their 3 teenaged boys and perhaps friends as well as the multitude of company that seems to always drop in. Photography by Tim Cree/Creepwalk Media

This enviable property sits perched on the bluff directly across from the ocean in the La Selva Beach neighborhood of Aptos. Project goals included overall beautification via plants with year-round color and showy blooms, more privacy on the patio and deck, and a way to deter frequent dog-walkers from cutting through the garden. We accomplished this last goal by building up soil mounds behind retaining walls and using taller plants at the apex. Privacy for the deck was achieved by the addition of sleek stucco walls. Project features a large swath of a walkable, drought-tolerant grass alternative. Special care was devoted to selecting plants that can withstand the wind, fog and salt-spray that occur near the ocean. South African and Australian plants figure prominently into the plant palette and create a vibrant complimentary color scheme against the ocean backdrop. Who wouldn't want to spend time in this ocean-view garden?

A stone and shingle facade and graceful lines highlight this expansive single-level home. Custom details can be found throughout the plan with elegant ceiling treatments in many rooms and built-in cabinetry flanking the great room fireplace. The chef's kitchen opens to the large dining area and to the great room, providing a focal point for family life and entertaining. One wing houses secondary bedrooms and utility space, helping to keep clutter out the formal living areas. The bedrooms each have a tray ceiling and their own walk-in closet. Just off the garage lies a utility room with ample work space, a large pantry, and convenient e-space. The oversized bonus room provides flexibility and access to plenty of attic storage. The opposite wing of the home plan is devoted to a roomy master suite with an attached sitting area to the rear. The suite accesses the rear porch, and includes two large walk-in closets. The highlight of the stunning master bath is the unique barrel vaulted ceiling over the garden tub. Dual vanities, a walk-in shower, and private privy complete the suite.

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

Example of a trendy wine cellar design in Los Angeles

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

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

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

Camp Wobegon is a nostalgic waterfront retreat for a multi-generational family. The home's name pays homage to a radio show the homeowner listened to when he was a child in Minnesota. Throughout the home, there are nods to the sentimental past paired with modern features of today. The five-story home sits on Round Lake in Charlevoix with a beautiful view of the yacht basin and historic downtown area. Each story of the home is devoted to a theme, such as family, grandkids, and wellness. The different stories boast standout features from an in-home fitness center complete with his and her locker rooms to a movie theater and a grandkids' getaway with murphy beds. The kids' library highlights an upper dome with a hand-painted welcome to the home's visitors. Throughout Camp Wobegon, the custom finishes are apparent. The entire home features radius drywall, eliminating any harsh corners. Masons carefully crafted two fireplaces for an authentic touch. In the great room, there are hand constructed dark walnut beams that intrigue and awe anyone who enters the space. Birchwood artisans and select Allenboss carpenters built and assembled the grand beams in the home. Perhaps the most unique room in the home is the exceptional dark walnut study. It exudes craftsmanship through the intricate woodwork. The floor, cabinetry, and ceiling were crafted with care by Birchwood carpenters. When you enter the study, you can smell the rich walnut. The room is a nod to the homeowner's father, who was a carpenter himself. The custom details don't stop on the interior. As you walk through 26-foot NanoLock doors, you're greeted by an endless pool and a showstopping view of Round Lake. Moving to the front of the home, it's easy to admire the two copper domes that sit atop the roof. Yellow cedar siding and painted cedar railing complement the eye-catching domes.

The lake views from this townhome’s master bathroom are panoramic and breathtaking. Unfortunately, the original layout of the bathroom itself left much to be desired. An old whirlpool tub took up too much floor space, the shower stall was too small and the room itself was cramped and dysfunctional. The homeowners’ goals called for improving the room’s traffic flow, creating a larger and more functional shower stall with dual use, taking full advantage of the lake view and bringing a Romanesque theme to the space. The first step in the renovation was to replace the old whirlpool with a small corner tub that took up half the space. The rest of that side of the room is devoted to the beautiful Roman-style shower stall with double rain shower, double body sprays and built in niches, arch headers and a heavy glass enclosure. The stalls creative use of mosaic tiles and medallion has made this shower stall the jewel of this project. The vanity uses dark cherry cabinetry which complements the cream rustic tumbled marble and oil rubbed bronze fixtures. A beautiful, curved slab of exotic marble was cut for the countertop and two hand-crafted vessel sinks made from tumbled stone are on top of it. The homeowners have never been happier to use their master bathroom .They get to have their own Roman-style bath experience by taking a few steps from their bedroom. Looking out of this gorgeous bathroom overlooking the lake just cannot be expressed with words.