Search results for "Differentiation" in Home Design Ideas

View from breakfast area into family room. We love open concept floor plans, varying your ceiling heights is a great way to stay open but differentiate rooms.
Photos by Rachel Gross

An expressive family home in Clapham.
The Brief
The brief was to create a new ground floor. It needed to be a flexible home capable of accommodating guests of all ages whilst maintaining purpose and separation between spaces.
The Solution
We proposed re-routing the hallway to become a central corridor through the ground floor plan. This would connect the rear and front halves of the property across a series of staggered level changes. We also wanted to create an enlarged rear space for entertainment that linked to the garden space.
The removal of an existing courtyard allowed for the insertion of a boot room and relocated WC central to the plan.
Separating the distinctly classical detailing of the front reception and dining room, which emphasises our clients’ favoured style and family backgrounds, from the sleek contemporary rear kitchen and entertainment space was successfully enhanced by the varied format of the timber flooring from Trunk.
Maintaining visual connectivity was achieved by way of two sizeable glazed pocket doors that enable the two halves of the plan to be differentiated from each other. At the same time, the use of internal glazing supports views through the property to the remodelled rear garden.
The bespoke designed kitchen from Eclectic Interiors introduces the user to the modernised rear extension, which features sharp detailing and a splash of colour from the feature media unit designed by our interiors team.
The symmetrical rear elevation carries through to the garden making for an interconnected, seamless transition through the property.
The Result
The combination of classical and contemporary elements marry together well to support flexible family living and entertaining. Our clients are delighted with the outcome and feel that it meets their brief and design aspirations.

The 5,769 sq. ft. house overlooks Santa Monica from a timelessly bucolic Palisades neighborhood and sits on a 15,500 sq. ft. lot. The clients desire for open, spacious, indoor/ outdoor living is combined with the casual charm and ambiance of traditional beach-town cottage Architecture. Sensitive massing subtlety weaves the home into its street context, and creates a variety of spaces within for the young active family. The main living areas open to one another and the adjoining landscape in a progression of spaces that range from casually elegant to comfortably informal. The primary color used throughout the interior is sunlight. The house traverses the course of a day awash in daydreamy Southern California light, and is rich with subtle surprises: instances of used brick on walls and ceilings, built-in, hand crafted cabinetry, pennies used as flooring in the powder room; Creative uses of tile, fixtures and cabinet hardware differentiate each bathroom.
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White and navy kitchen designs are still a hot commodity.
We opted for the two-toned colour palette in this kitchen design. We carried the white cabinets into the pantry to keep the space bright and differentiate this area from the main kitchen.
The white and navy cabinets are complimented with stained maple floating shelves throughout the kitchen and pantry.
In order to provide additional storage, we designed this walk-in pantry with a beautiful arched doorway.
Adding classic finishes such as this beautiful granite countertop and textured backsplash tile really add an elegant touch to the overall design.

This stunning landscape in Chicago's western suburbs is designed for ultimate personal and group entertaining. The composite deck features a Pratic pergola that can be adjusted to block rain and sun or fully open to the sky, complemented by glass railings for unobstructed views. The Unilock patio below is thoughtfully designed to differentiate dining and lounge areas, while an outdoor fireplace with a mounted TV provides a perfect spot for watching games and movies. The outdoor kitchen is fully equipped with a fridge, grill, and pellet smoker, and the addition of an outdoor barrel sauna and cold plunge creates a luxurious spa-like atmosphere in the backyard.

The custom builder went to great lengths to accent differentiate this home with quality finishings and attention to detail. We carefully selected each item in our design plan to highlight and showcase these features, so prospective buyers would be drawn to and impressed by the home.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

This renovation transformed a dark cherry kitchen into an elegant space for cooking and entertaining. The working island features a prep sink and faces a Wolf 48” range and custom stainless steel hood with nickel strapping and rivet details. The eating island is differentiated by arched brackets and polished stainless steel boots on the elevated legs. A neutral, veined Quartzite for the islands and perimeter countertops was paired with a herringbone, ceramic tile backsplash, and rift oak textured cabinetry for style. Intelligent design features walnut drawer interiors and pull-out drawers for spices and condiments, along with another for lid storage. A water dispenser was expressly designed to be accessible yet hidden from view to offset the home’s well water system and was a favorite feature of the homeowner.

Open concept kitchen - large traditional l-shaped porcelain tile open concept kitchen idea in Nashville with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Strategically playing with color tones, we artfully differentiated each section, ensuring a seamless yet visually captivating flow throughout the entire space. The soft California breeze seems to effortlessly pass through the rooms, as each area boasts a distinct personality that complements the other.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

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.

This one-of-a-kind real estate was designed originally by SF architect in 1972 and re-designed and remodeled in 2016 by designer Hamid Rafiei and built by Hamta Partners INC. This 6,400 sqft European minimal-modern design home with a state of the art automation system by Control 4, and 27 recessed ceiling speakers is the most desirable custom home anyone can dream of. Awash in natural light and gorgeous land, offering peace and tranquility, with views from custom made windows throughout. Main house features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths and glass railings that lead to a spacious loft. The fireplace, embedded in book-matched quartzite slabs of stone, becomes the focal point of the house as you walk into the door. Every single room and space in this house has been meticulously designed and constructed with attention to all the small details. All of these unique features added to this beautiful home makes it differentiate its self from all others.

Köllen Bookshelf is a modular shelf design that allows the user to interact with it. This differentiates it from other classic pieces of furniture.
Köllen Bookshelf is a shelf created from the repetition of adaptable pieces in matter of size and shape of the objects on it. Its autonomous structure allows an independent working of each of the strips, so that they can be placed in different positions according to the user’s need. This structure will also allow for it to be a considerably decorative element: it follows a clean structure broken by a curved edge that represents the mountains, in a nod to the piece’s originary region.

Featuring a ground-breaking modern design, Shark Sideboard is an architectural metamorphosis intended to give meaning and identity to its surroundings, defining a space without interruptions or jarringly harsh contrasts. Shark Sideboard differentiates its spatial boundaries with vast possibilities of placement. Whether used as a room divider or a feature element, Shark Italian Sideboard provides as much potential as possible to stimulate bold, unique and incomparable atmosphere.

Imagine a new home as big as a zip code! How do differentiate the space and add personality? Color!
Example of a huge classic formal and enclosed light wood floor and brown floor living room design in DC Metro with brown walls, a corner fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv
Example of a huge classic formal and enclosed light wood floor and brown floor living room design in DC Metro with brown walls, a corner fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

Expanding and updating the kitchen was our top priority – the new layout was designed to straddle the original house and the addition, creating work zones rather than the traditional work triangle. The modified galley layout more than doubled their countertop area and storage space. Extending the kitchen into the addition took full advantage of the vaulted ceilings and light-filled space. To improve flow and connectivity, we opened up a wall between the old kitchen and the front entry hall providing a straight path from front door to the new mudroom/drop zone and kitchen beyond. A door from the dining room into the kitchen was shifted to allow for a more generous kitchen.
The beautifully veined Calacatta Eiffel quartz counters and backsplash provide visual contrast with the black cabinetry and keep the space from feeling too heavy. A continuous ledge and floating shelves replace traditional uppers for a more open and modern feel. Stained wood is used throughout, from the bench top, to shelving, trim and custom millwork; it brings in a natural element and helps unite all of the spaces. A hood with a custom Venetian plaster finish is flanked by vintage inspired sconces and provides a stunning focal point in the room. A deep nook is home to a ‘bubble box’ that dispenses cold sparkling or still water on demand – the marble tile backsplash further differentiates this beverage zone. The brushed brass hardware stands out against the dark cabinets and adds a touch of warmth. With seating for three at the counter and the inclusion of a breakfast area banquette (with drawers), the home is ideal for family time and relaxed gatherings with friends.

Inspiration for a large timeless master gray tile and porcelain tile mosaic tile floor bathroom remodel in Los Angeles with shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, a two-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink and marble countertops

-Renovation of waterfront high-rise residence
-To contrast with sunny environment and light pallet typical of beach homes, we darken and create drama in the elevator lobby, foyer and gallery
-For visual unity, the three contiguous passageways employ coffee-stained wood walls accented with horizontal brass bands, but they're differentiated using unique floors and ceilings
-We design and fabricate glass paneled, double entry doors in unit’s innermost area, the elevator lobby, making doors fire-rated to satisfy necessary codes
-Doors eight glass panels allow natural light to filter from outdoors into core of the building

The custom builder went to great lengths to accent differentiate this home with quality finishings and attention to detail. We carefully selected each item in our design plan to highlight and showcase these features, so prospective buyers would be drawn to and impressed by the home.
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