When we met this family of 5 (months from being a family of 6!), their first floor felt outdated and disconnected. They dreamed of a space that felt light and airy, yet infused with rich, earthy materials to create warmth and add bold character. More than just a refresh, they needed a functional layout that worked for everyday life—cooking, laundry, entertaining friends, and even unwinding with a cocktail at the end of the day. Extending the kitchen into the morning room seating area enhanced both flow and functionality, while a spacious island became the heart of the home—ideal for casual family meals, meal prep, and hosting friends. A dedicated beverage station with a sink, refrigeration, and an awning window for indoor-outdoor entertaining allows for an effortless transition from morning routines to afternoon snacks on the patio. The laundry room was designed with designated storage for all four kids, creating an organized and functional space. It also serves as a practical landing zone when entering the home, seamlessly extending the light and airy theme with thoughtful design details and playful touches.

Living Room in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

On Lake Washington, an existing pool terrace was disconnected from the rest of the yard and and waterfront. The site had a challenging slope, but it was no match for a thoughtful design and some earth moving equipment! A retaining wall at the edge of the existing pool was replaced with a wide, generous stair welcoming guests to a new, bocce-style terrace below complete with gas fire pit and stunning views. A gentle, winding path leads down to a waters-edge patio with intersecting stone and concrete patterns creating a visually dynamic experience. A small sandy beach and generous lawn complete the experience. A California style planting palette with beach groundcover, perennials and elegant, flowing grasses highlighted with LED low-voltage outdoor lighting complete the vacation-home-in-the-city feel. Photography by: Miranda Estes

A major aspect of the Craftsman style home renovation included an extensive kitchen remodel. The 1950’s kitchen, while still functional, was dated and disconnected from the style of the home and the main living area. Our clients wanted a bright and airy space to enjoy with family and friends. The entire existing kitchen was gutted and expanded by 186 square feet in order to accommodate a new family room. The new steel French Doors and windows have a “gun metal” or burnished “bronze” live finish to complement the other accessories found within the kitchen. Not only do they flood the space with natural light, but also frame incredible city views over the tops of lush green surroundings. The new Taj Majal Quartzite stone countertop from Brazil resembles Italian Calacatta marble in appearance, but it is much harder and more durable since it does not have the scratching and etching issues of marble. The combination of cherry cabinetry and a unique handmade Motawi Tile backsplash in a dazzling pear matte color, vividly completes the home’s Craftsman aesthetic. It is bright and dynamic, while still appearing tastefully in line with its classic style

On Lake Washington, an existing pool terrace was disconnected from the rest of the yard and and waterfront. The site had a challenging slope, but it was no match for a thoughtful design and some earth moving equipment! A retaining wall at the edge of the exciting pool was replaced with a wide, generous stair welcoming guests to a new, bocce-style terrace below complete with gas fire pit and stunning views. A gentle, winding path leads down to a waters-edge patio with intersecting stone and concrete patterns creating a visually dynamic experience. A small sandy beach and generous lawn complete the experience. A California style planting palette with beach groundcover, perennials and elegant, flowing grasses highlighted with LED low-voltage outdoor lighting complete the vacation-home-in-the-city feel. Photography: Miranda Estes

knickerbockergroup.com Photo copyright 2017 Darren Setlow / @darrensetlow / darrensetlow.com The story of Tide’s Ledge began much differently than it ended. It was originally conceived as a transitional home, but one that was distinctly more on the traditional side, so as not to “stick out too much” in its classic coastal Maine environment. As the design team continued to meet with the clients about their desires and the direction of the project, it became apparent that there was a disconnect between the objective and the inspiration imagery they were drawn to. The design was well underway, the foundation going in the ground, when the lead Architect stopped the process short to address the conflicting visions. He pointed out that the clients did in fact have a keen eye for contemporary design and were clearly attracted to something with more of an edge. After mulling it over for a few days, the clients decided to take a leap of faith and truly build the house of their dreams. They then gave Knickerbocker permission to develop a fresh concept, and soon a new home emerged.

Living Room in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

Living Room in The Gathering House | Room Type: Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) | Project Name: The Gathering House | Key Feature: A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living. Challenge: The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas. Solution: The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability. Materials: Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware | Budget: $100K- $150K | Timeline: Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

Mid-sized trendy l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in DC Metro with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Kids Bedroom in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

Bathroom in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

Living Room in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

This 1980s subdivision home was built in an era of compartmentalized spaces, with separate, defined rooms that made the main living areas feel disconnected. While it wasn’t a true split-level, its four-tiered design—including a sunken living room adjacent to the kitchen—created challenges in both function and flow. The homeowners envisioned something different—a space that felt open, modern, and perfect for entertaining. The first step was bringing cohesion to the main level by leveling the floors, eliminating unnecessary height changes, and creating a seamless transition from one space to another. To truly optimize the home for gatherings, we reimagined the layout, relocating the kitchen to what was once the dining room. This strategic move allowed for a more spacious and inviting flow between the kitchen and outdoor living area, giving the homeowners the perfect setup for hosting friends and family. A sleek, modern railing added a final touch of transparency and sophistication, reinforcing the home's newfound sense of openness.

This 1980s subdivision home was built in an era of compartmentalized spaces, with separate, defined rooms that made the main living areas feel disconnected. While it wasn’t a true split-level, its four-tiered design—including a sunken living room adjacent to the kitchen—created challenges in both function and flow. The homeowners envisioned something different—a space that felt open, modern, and perfect for entertaining. The first step was bringing cohesion to the main level by leveling the floors, eliminating unnecessary height changes, and creating a seamless transition from one space to another. To truly optimize the home for gatherings, we reimagined the layout, relocating the kitchen to what was once the dining room. This strategic move allowed for a more spacious and inviting flow between the kitchen and outdoor living area, giving the homeowners the perfect setup for hosting friends and family. A sleek, modern railing added a final touch of transparency and sophistication, reinforcing the home's newfound sense of openness.

This 1980s subdivision home was built in an era of compartmentalized spaces, with separate, defined rooms that made the main living areas feel disconnected. While it wasn’t a true split-level, its four-tiered design—including a sunken living room adjacent to the kitchen—created challenges in both function and flow. The homeowners envisioned something different—a space that felt open, modern, and perfect for entertaining. The first step was bringing cohesion to the main level by leveling the floors, eliminating unnecessary height changes, and creating a seamless transition from one space to another. To truly optimize the home for gatherings, we reimagined the layout, relocating the kitchen to what was once the dining room. This strategic move allowed for a more spacious and inviting flow between the kitchen and outdoor living area, giving the homeowners the perfect setup for hosting friends and family. A sleek, modern railing added a final touch of transparency and sophistication, reinforcing the home's newfound sense of openness.

When we met this family of 5 (months from being a family of 6!), their first floor felt outdated and disconnected. They dreamed of a space that felt light and airy, yet infused with rich, earthy materials to create warmth and add bold character. More than just a refresh, they needed a functional layout that worked for everyday life—cooking, laundry, entertaining friends, and even unwinding with a cocktail at the end of the day. Extending the kitchen into the morning room seating area enhanced both flow and functionality, while a spacious island became the heart of the home—ideal for casual family meals, meal prep, and hosting friends. A dedicated beverage station with a sink, refrigeration, and an awning window for indoor-outdoor entertaining allows for an effortless transition from morning routines to afternoon snacks on the patio. The laundry room was designed with designated storage for all four kids, creating an organized and functional space. It also serves as a practical landing zone when entering the home, seamlessly extending the light and airy theme with thoughtful design details and playful touches.

Before, this living room felt underutilized and visually unbalanced, with a disconnected focal point and minimal architectural presence. The space lacked both warmth and intention, leaving the layout feeling incomplete. Our goal was to create a refined focal point that brings together both structure and comfort—true to our philosophy of balancing the home’s strong architectural elements with its soft, lived-in experience. We reimagined the fireplace wall by introducing a clean, built-in composition with symmetrical shelving, integrated lighting, and a modern linear fireplace insert. The addition of custom cabinetry enhances both functionality and visual weight, anchoring the space. A new chandelier adds vertical interest and elevates the room, while carefully selected furnishings, textures, and warm neutral tones create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The result is a grounded yet elevated living space—where architectural clarity meets everyday comfort.

Bathroom in Desert Escape | Room Type: Full Home Remodel + Furnishing (4 Bedroom, 5 Bath, 3,627 sq ft residence). Project Name: Desert Escape Design. Key Feature: A complete home refurnishing and remodel including the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace, designed to deliver striking wow factor while maintaining the warmth of a serene desert retreat. Challenge: The previous designer’s work was poor quality, and remodeling only the primary suite would have created a noticeable disconnect with the rest of the home. Solution: The clients chose to fully refurnish the entire home and remodel the master bathroom, powder room, and fireplace to create a cohesive, elevated design throughout. Materials: Lighting: Visual Comfort, Circa Lighting, Hammerton Studio. Rugs: Jaipur. Art: Leftbank. Mirrors: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Arte, Elitis. Furniture: Four Hands, Moss Studio, Dovetail, Bernhardt, Noir, Arteriors, CFC. Budget: $100K-$250K | Timeline: Completed August 202

When we met this family of 5 (months from being a family of 6!), their first floor felt outdated and disconnected. They dreamed of a space that felt light and airy, yet infused with rich, earthy materials to create warmth and add bold character. More than just a refresh, they needed a functional layout that worked for everyday life—cooking, laundry, entertaining friends, and even unwinding with a cocktail at the end of the day. Extending the kitchen into the morning room seating area enhanced both flow and functionality, while a spacious island became the heart of the home—ideal for casual family meals, meal prep, and hosting friends. A dedicated beverage station with a sink, refrigeration, and an awning window for indoor-outdoor entertaining allows for an effortless transition from morning routines to afternoon snacks on the patio. The laundry room was designed with designated storage for all four kids, creating an organized and functional space. It also serves as a practical landing zone when entering the home, seamlessly extending the light and airy theme with thoughtful design details and playful touches.