This home, set at the end of a long, private driveway, is far more than meets the eye. Built in three sections and connected by two breezeways, the home’s setting takes full advantage of the clean ocean air. Set back from the water on an open plot, its lush lawn is bordered by fieldstone walls that lead to an ocean cove. The hideaway calms the mind and spirit, not only by its privacy from the noise of daily life, but through well-chosen elements, clean lines, and a bright, cheerful feel throughout. The interior is show-stopping, covered almost entirely in clear, vertical-grain fir—most of which was source from the same place. From the flooring to the walls, columns, staircases and ceiling beams, this special, tight-grain wood brightens every room in the home. At just over 3,000 feet of living area, storage and smart use of space was a huge consideration in the creation of this home. For example, the mudroom and living room were both built with expansive window seating with storage beneath. Built-in drawers and cabinets can also be found throughout, yet never interfere with the distinctly uncluttered feel of the rooms. The homeowners wanted the home to fit in as naturally as possible with the Cape Cod landscape, and also desired a feeling of virtual seamlessness between the indoors and out, resulting in an abundance of windows and doors throughout. This home has high performance windows, which are rated to withstand hurricane-force winds and impact rated against wind-borne debris. The 24-foot skylight, which was installed by crane, consists of six independently mechanized shades operating in unison. The open kitchen blends in with the home’s great room, and includes a Sub Zero refrigerator and a Wolf stove. Eco-friendly features in the home include low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets in the bathrooms, and an energy recovery ventilation system, which conditions and improves indoor air quality. Other natural materials incorporated for the home included a variety of stone, including bluestone and boulders. Hand-made ceramic tiles were used for the bathroom showers, and the kitchen counters are covered in granite – eye-catching and long-lasting.

We were excited when the homeowners of this project approached us to help them with their whole house remodel as this is a historic preservation project. The historical society has approved this remodel. As part of that distinction we had to honor the original look of the home; keeping the façade updated but intact. For example the doors and windows are new but they were made as replicas to the originals. The homeowners were relocating from the Inland Empire to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. One of their requests was additional living space. In order to achieve this we added a second story to the home while ensuring that it was in character with the original structure. The interior of the home is all new. It features all new plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Although the home is a Spanish Revival the homeowners style on the interior of the home is very traditional. The project features a home gym as it is important to the homeowners to stay healthy and fit. The kitchen / great room was designed so that the homewoners could spend time with their daughter and her children. The home features two master bedroom suites. One is upstairs and the other one is down stairs. The homeowners prefer to use the downstairs version as they are not forced to use the stairs. They have left the upstairs master suite as a guest suite. Enjoy some of the before and after images of this project: http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3549200/old-garage-office-turned-gym-in-los-angeles http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3558821/la-face-lift-for-the-patio http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3569717/la-kitchen-remodel http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3579013/los-angeles-entry-hall http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3592549/exterior-shots-of-a-whole-house-remodel-in-la http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3607481/living-dining-rooms-become-a-library-and-formal-dining-room-in-la http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3628842/bathroom-makeover-in-los-angeles-ca http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3640770/sweet-dreams-la-bedroom-remodels Exterior: Approved by the historical society as a Spanish Revival, the second story of this home was an addition. All of the windows and doors were replicated to match the original styling of the house. The roof is a combination of Gable and Hip and is made of red clay tile. The arched door and windows are typical of Spanish Revival. The home also features a Juliette Balcony and window. Library / Living Room: The library offers Pocket Doors and custom bookcases. Powder Room: This powder room has a black toilet and Herringbone travertine. Kitchen: This kitchen was designed for someone who likes to cook! It features a Pot Filler, a peninsula and an island, a prep sink in the island, and cookbook storage on the end of the peninsula. The homeowners opted for a mix of stainless and paneled appliances. Although they have a formal dining room they wanted a casual breakfast area to enjoy informal meals with their grandchildren. The kitchen also utilizes a mix of recessed lighting and pendant lights. A wine refrigerator and outlets conveniently located on the island and around the backsplash are the modern updates that were important to the homeowners. Master bath: The master bath enjoys both a soaking tub and a large shower with body sprayers and hand held. For privacy, the bidet was placed in a water closet next to the shower. There is plenty of counter space in this bathroom which even includes a makeup table. Staircase: The staircase features a decorative niche Upstairs master suite: The upstairs master suite features the Juliette balcony Outside: Wanting to take advantage of southern California living the homeowners requested an outdoor kitchen complete with retractable awning. The fountain and lounging furniture keep it light. Home gym: This gym comes completed with rubberized floor covering and dedicated bathroom. It also features its own HVAC system and wall mounted TV.

Walls with thick plaster arches and simple tile designs feel very natural and earthy in the warm Southern California sun. Terra cotta floor tiles are stained to mimic very old tile inside and outside in the Spanish courtyard shaded by a 'new' old olive tree. The outdoor plaster and brick fireplace has touches of antique Indian and Moroccan items. An outdoor garden shower graces the exterior of the master bath with freestanding white tub- while taking advantage of the warm Ojai summers. The open kitchen design includes all natural stone counters of white marble, a large range with a plaster range hood and custom hand painted tile on the back splash. Wood burning fireplaces with iron doors, great rooms with hand scraped wide walnut planks in this delightful stay cool home. Stained wood beams, trusses and planked ceilings along with custom creative wood doors with Spanish and Indian accents throughout this home gives a distinctive California Exotic feel. Project Location: Ojai designed by Maraya Interior Design. From their beautiful resort town of Ojai, they serve clients in Montecito, Hope Ranch, Malibu, Westlake and Calabasas, across the tri-county areas of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles, south to Hidden Hills- north through Solvang and more.Spanish Revival home in Ojai.

If you dreamed of living in rural Italy, you don’t have to go further than Villa de Palma. This 4,863 square-foot rustic Tuscan home is both beautiful and energy efficient. A beautiful stone entry introduces this unique home that features vaulted ceilings, locally handmade front door and a fully finished basement. From the tropical solarium housing an exercise pool to rustic trim work and beautiful slate tile, no detail was overlooked. The one-of-a-kind distinctive details include two fireplaces, barn door, alder cabinetry, arched doorways and rustic wood exterior accents. The luxurious interior features earth tone colors throughout that make you feel at home. The home was specifically designed to fit into the challenging hillside lot; situated to take advantage of the sensational views of the mountains to the West while still using passive solar to regulate the home’s temperature. The renewable energy systems include a 10 kW photovoltaic system and a solar thermal system for heating domestic hot water. The first two levels of the home are constructed of ICF (insulated concrete forms). Foam is sprayed on the sheeting of the roof to provide a conditioned attic space that is unvented to reduce utility cost and risk of fire. A hot water loop is used to provide hot water quickly to each fixture and reduce water waste. A HRV (heat recovery ventilator) is installed to exchange air in the home and provide point of use exhaust. Photo by Paul Kohlman

This couple dreamt of having a spa-like master bathroom for their home. Their prior master bathroom was limited and did not have ample space to accommodate all their needs. We suggested taking advantage of some of the spare room area next door, to enlarge the master bathroom. The remaining area of that spare room became a dressing room with new windows to allow daylight and to join new custom closet room. Another desire was separate his and her commode/bidet rooms. We designed two dedicated areas for them with a middle area provided for a large set of whirlpools under the window. The remaining space from adjacent room turned into a large gorgeous floor to ceiling, stone covered walk-in shower with multi showerheads, rain shower, body spray and other amenities. Adjacent to the left, there is a large wall covered with double vanities, custom cabinets, glamorous lighting and other features. We added large scale porcelain floor tiles with heated floors, decorative glass accent of shower and vanity walls. A frost glass door to the master bathroom, toilet room and dressing area allows maximum daylight into this distinct and classy master bathroom. Additionally, vanity walls with vessel sink, wall mount faucet and wallpaper looking custom back wall tile finishes this master bathroom.

This home, set at the end of a long, private driveway, is far more than meets the eye. Built in three sections and connected by two breezeways, the home’s setting takes full advantage of the clean ocean air. Set back from the water on an open plot, its lush lawn is bordered by fieldstone walls that lead to an ocean cove. The hideaway calms the mind and spirit, not only by its privacy from the noise of daily life, but through well-chosen elements, clean lines, and a bright, cheerful feel throughout. The interior is show-stopping, covered almost entirely in clear, vertical-grain fir—most of which was source from the same place. From the flooring to the walls, columns, staircases and ceiling beams, this special, tight-grain wood brightens every room in the home. At just over 3,000 feet of living area, storage and smart use of space was a huge consideration in the creation of this home. For example, the mudroom and living room were both built with expansive window seating with storage beneath. Built-in drawers and cabinets can also be found throughout, yet never interfere with the distinctly uncluttered feel of the rooms. The homeowners wanted the home to fit in as naturally as possible with the Cape Cod landscape, and also desired a feeling of virtual seamlessness between the indoors and out, resulting in an abundance of windows and doors throughout. This home has high performance windows, which are rated to withstand hurricane-force winds and impact rated against wind-borne debris. The 24-foot skylight, which was installed by crane, consists of six independently mechanized shades operating in unison. The open kitchen blends in with the home’s great room, and includes a Sub Zero refrigerator and a Wolf stove. Eco-friendly features in the home include low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets in the bathrooms, and an energy recovery ventilation system, which conditions and improves indoor air quality. Other natural materials incorporated for the home included a variety of stone, including bluestone and boulders. Hand-made ceramic tiles were used for the bathroom showers, and the kitchen counters are covered in granite – eye-catching and long-lasting.

American Restoration combines two of the most expensive and high-end trends in the hardwood flooring industry. We are excited because our product offers these really pricey trends in an affordable floor! Elegantly rustic, reclaimed-wood styling with very distinctive markings. This style, paired with a rich oil-stained finish look, creates a stunningly beautiful floor and is reminiscent of old worn barnwood. One of the hottest visuals and environmental trends is utilizing reclaimed wood. Much of this wood is resourced from the beautiful old barns you see dotting the rural countryside. These barns are quickly disappearing. To use this product for flooring can cost upward of $50 to $100 per square foot. We have created the look of this authentic reclaimed character in a running line product! The second hottest trend – an oil-rubbed finish – has been one of the most popular hardwood flooring choices in Europe and has now found its way to the states. An oilrubbed finish is a more natural way to finish a wood floor, and it creates a very low gloss visual that really accentuates the grain of the wood. This is a sand and finish technique that is not only a very laborious and time consuming process, but it is not very durable. A traditional oil-rubbed finish requires reapplication several times a year. Thanks to the advantages of Shaw’s hardwood finish – ScufResist Platinum – we can create this elegant look without all the maintenance. We have combined these two looks to bring you a floor that presents the authentic, skip-sawn look of reclaimed wood – rich with history and human touch, but with a fresh sophistication for today’s design-aware lifestyles. A floor that expresses a sense of caring and character. A floor with great substance and style. A floor with a vintage look combined with state-of-the-art technology. A floor that can live in any setting! And of course... it is made right here.

Distinctive quartzite counters are a showstopper, with unique veining and striking color variation, from blue to gray to ochre. The pearlescent blue-gray backsplash unites the entire space. The overall goal was to create an expansive entertaining kitchen that could accommodate our clients’ large gatherings of family and friends, and provide them with several zones for prepping, serving, seating, and socializing. Also high on the clients’ wish list: a more generous island, professional appliances, and better storage. We expanded the island in two directions to allow for comfortable seating at the counter with plenty of room for a table in the breakfast nook. An expandable bar height table in the adjacent dining area offers even more flexibility for eating and socializing. We designed a custom hutch which has a multitude of storage options and functionality – open display shelves, roll-outs, drawers, extra counter/serving space, as well as a beverage fridge and appliance garage/coffee center. On the opposite side of the kitchen, we replaced a small pantry closet with a furniture style built-in that took advantage of underutilized space. Anticipating issues with supply chain, we opted to use a local cabinet maker on this project which allowed us to fully customize the cabinets for optimal functionality. Other stand-out features include a Thermador appliance package, workstation farmhouse sink, ‘touch’ faucet, hot+cold water dispenser, and hidden toe-kick storage. Our clients now have a beautiful, cohesive space that reflects their personal style and fulfills their dream of a having an expansive kitchen where they can cook and entertain for years to come.

Today’s basements are much more than dark, dingy spaces or rec rooms of years ago. Because homeowners are spending more time in them, basements have evolved into lower-levels with distinctive spaces, complete with stone and marble fireplaces, sitting areas, coffee and wine bars, home theaters, over sized guest suites and bathrooms that rival some of the most luxurious resort accommodations. Gracing the lakeshore of Lake Beulah, this homes lower-level presents a beautiful opening to the deck and offers dynamic lake views. To take advantage of the home’s placement, the homeowner wanted to enhance the lower-level and provide a more rustic feel to match the home’s main level, while making the space more functional for boating equipment and easy access to the pier and lakefront. Jeff Auberger designed a seating area to transform into a theater room with a touch of a button. A hidden screen descends from the ceiling, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the lake. Our team worked with a local company that supplies reclaimed barn board to add to the decor and finish off the new space. Using salvaged wood from a corn crib located in nearby Delavan, Jeff designed a charming area near the patio door that features two closets behind sliding barn doors and a bench nestled between the closets, providing an ideal spot to hang wet towels and store flip flops after a day of boating. The reclaimed barn board was also incorporated into built-in shelving alongside the fireplace and an accent wall in the updated kitchenette. Lastly the children in this home are fans of the Harry Potter book series, so naturally, there was a Harry Potter themed cupboard under the stairs created. This cozy reading nook features Hogwartz banners and wizarding wands that would amaze any fan of the book series.

One of the few truly American architectural styles, the Craftsman/Prairie style was developed around the turn of the century by a group of Midwestern architects who drew their inspiration from the surrounding landscape. The spacious yet cozy Thompson draws from features from both Craftsman/Prairie and Farmhouse styles for its all-American appeal. The eye-catching exterior includes a distinctive side entrance and stone accents as well as an abundance of windows for both outdoor views and interior rooms bathed in natural light. The floor plan is equally creative. The large floor porch entrance leads into a spacious 2,400-square-foot main floor plan, including a living room with an unusual corner fireplace. Designed for both ease and elegance, it also features a sunroom that takes full advantage of the nearby outdoors, an adjacent private study/retreat and an open plan kitchen and dining area with a handy walk-in pantry filled with convenient storage. Not far away is the private master suite with its own large bathroom and closet, a laundry area and a 800-square-foot, three-car garage. At night, relax in the 1,000-square foot lower level family room or exercise space. When the day is done, head upstairs to the 1,300 square foot upper level, where three cozy bedrooms await, each with its own private bath. Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography Builder: Bouwkamp Builders

One of the few truly American architectural styles, the Craftsman/Prairie style was developed around the turn of the century by a group of Midwestern architects who drew their inspiration from the surrounding landscape. The spacious yet cozy Thompson draws from features from both Craftsman/Prairie and Farmhouse styles for its all-American appeal. The eye-catching exterior includes a distinctive side entrance and stone accents as well as an abundance of windows for both outdoor views and interior rooms bathed in natural light. The floor plan is equally creative. The large floor porch entrance leads into a spacious 2,400-square-foot main floor plan, including a living room with an unusual corner fireplace. Designed for both ease and elegance, it also features a sunroom that takes full advantage of the nearby outdoors, an adjacent private study/retreat and an open plan kitchen and dining area with a handy walk-in pantry filled with convenient storage. Not far away is the private master suite with its own large bathroom and closet, a laundry area and a 800-square-foot, three-car garage. At night, relax in the 1,000-square foot lower level family room or exercise space. When the day is done, head upstairs to the 1,300 square foot upper level, where three cozy bedrooms await, each with its own private bath. Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography Builder: Bouwkamp Builders

APD was hired to update the kitchen, powder bathroom, and second floor primary bathroom classical urban townhome. The home had previously undergone some “unfortunate” remodels and our design focus was to reinfuse traditional character back into her bones while adding some modern and truly custom amenities. The traditional layout of the home meant our kitchen was a distinct room (not a great room style layout) and the new space plan took advantage of all four walls of the space. Where an unused chimney previously existed, now stands the concealed and built-in refrigerator while the microwave was hidden within adjacent cabinetry. A custom blue and brass range flanked in black cabinetry, backed by a traditional marble tile inset, and capped with a plaster hood in black to match the cabinetry - providing a seamless transition to the rest of the space. Floating shelves with a brass bar rail and decorative sconces provide both functional and decorative storage. A huge change was made at the back wall of the kitchen. Windows are topped with decorative sconces with counter height seating below (offering a smooth transition to the deck just outside for entertaining!). Both sides of the window are flanked with ample storage and a food and water station (with pot filler for easy top-off!) was incorporated for the homeowner’s four-legged family member (who was sadly lost before the project completed but sits in loving memory of him and waiting for a new loved one to join the family when their hearts are ready!)

This couple dreamt of having a spa-like master bathroom for their home. Their prior master bathroom was limited and did not have ample space to accommodate all their needs. We suggested taking advantage of some of the spare room area next door, to enlarge the master bathroom. The remaining area of that spare room became a dressing room with new windows to allow daylight and to join new custom closet room. Another desire was separate his and her commode/bidet rooms. We designed two dedicated areas for them with a middle area provided for a large set of whirlpools under the window. The remaining space from adjacent room turned into a large gorgeous floor to ceiling, stone covered walk-in shower with multi showerheads, rain shower, body spray and other amenities. Adjacent to the left, there is a large wall covered with double vanities, custom cabinets, glamorous lighting and other features. We added large scale porcelain floor tiles with heated floors, decorative glass accent of shower and vanity walls. A frost glass door to the master bathroom, toilet room and dressing area allows maximum daylight into this distinct and classy master bathroom. Additionally, vanity walls with vessel sink, wall mount faucet and wallpaper looking custom back wall tile finishes this master bathroom.

This couple dreamt of having a spa-like master bathroom for their home. Their prior master bathroom was limited and did not have ample space to accommodate all their needs. We suggested taking advantage of some of the spare room area next door, to enlarge the master bathroom. The remaining area of that spare room became a dressing room with new windows to allow daylight and to join new custom closet room. Another desire was separate his and her commode/bidet rooms. We designed two dedicated areas for them with a middle area provided for a large set of whirlpools under the window. The remaining space from adjacent room turned into a large gorgeous floor to ceiling, stone covered walk-in shower with multi showerheads, rain shower, body spray and other amenities. Adjacent to the left, there is a large wall covered with double vanities, custom cabinets, glamorous lighting and other features. We added large scale porcelain floor tiles with heated floors, decorative glass accent of shower and vanity walls. A frost glass door to the master bathroom, toilet room and dressing area allows maximum daylight into this distinct and classy master bathroom. Additionally, vanity walls with vessel sink, wall mount faucet and wallpaper looking custom back wall tile finishes this master bathroom.

This project began with an entire penthouse floor of open raw space which the clients had the opportunity to section off the piece that suited them the best for their needs and desires. As the design firm on the space, LK Design was intricately involved in determining the borders of the space and the way the floor plan would be laid out. Taking advantage of the southwest corner of the floor, we were able to incorporate three large balconies, tremendous views, excellent light and a layout that was open and spacious. There is a large master suite with two large dressing rooms/closets, two additional bedrooms, one and a half additional bathrooms, an office space, hearth room and media room, as well as the large kitchen with oversized island, butler's pantry and large open living room. The clients are not traditional in their taste at all, but going completely modern with simple finishes and furnishings was not their style either. What was produced is a very contemporary space with a lot of visual excitement. Every room has its own distinct aura and yet the whole space flows seamlessly. From the arched cloud structure that floats over the dining room table to the cathedral type ceiling box over the kitchen island to the barrel ceiling in the master bedroom, LK Design created many features that are unique and help define each space. At the same time, the open living space is tied together with stone columns and built-in cabinetry which are repeated throughout that space. Comfort, luxury and beauty were the key factors in selecting furnishings for the clients. The goal was to provide furniture that complimented the space without fighting it.

APD was hired to update the kitchen, powder bathroom, and second floor primary bathroom classical urban townhome. The home had previously undergone some “unfortunate” remodels and our design focus was to reinfuse traditional character back into her bones while adding some modern and truly custom amenities. The traditional layout of the home meant our kitchen was a distinct room (not a great room style layout) and the new space plan took advantage of all four walls of the space. Where an unused chimney previously existed, now stands the concealed and built-in refrigerator while the microwave was hidden within adjacent cabinetry. A custom blue and brass range flanked in black cabinetry, backed by a traditional marble tile inset, and capped with a plaster hood in black to match the cabinetry - providing a seamless transition to the rest of the space. Floating shelves with a brass bar rail and decorative sconces provide both functional and decorative storage. A huge change was made at the back wall of the kitchen. Windows are topped with decorative sconces with counter height seating below (offering a smooth transition to the deck just outside for entertaining!). Both sides of the window are flanked with ample storage and a food and water station (with pot filler for easy top-off!) was incorporated for the homeowner’s four-legged family member (who was sadly lost before the project completed but sits in loving memory of him and waiting for a new loved one to join the family when their hearts are ready!)

APD was hired to update the kitchen, powder bathroom, and second floor primary bathroom classical urban townhome. The home had previously undergone some “unfortunate” remodels and our design focus was to reinfuse traditional character back into her bones while adding some modern and truly custom amenities. The traditional layout of the home meant our kitchen was a distinct room (not a great room style layout) and the new space plan took advantage of all four walls of the space. Where an unused chimney previously existed, now stands the concealed and built-in refrigerator while the microwave was hidden within adjacent cabinetry. A custom blue and brass range flanked in black cabinetry, backed by a traditional marble tile inset, and capped with a plaster hood in black to match the cabinetry - providing a seamless transition to the rest of the space. Floating shelves with a brass bar rail and decorative sconces provide both functional and decorative storage. A huge change was made at the back wall of the kitchen. Windows are topped with decorative sconces with counter height seating below (offering a smooth transition to the deck just outside for entertaining!). Both sides of the window are flanked with ample storage and a food and water station (with pot filler for easy top-off!) was incorporated for the homeowner’s four-legged family member (who was sadly lost before the project completed but sits in loving memory of him and waiting for a new loved one to join the family when their hearts are ready!)

This couple dreamt of having a spa-like master bathroom for their home. Their prior master bathroom was limited and did not have ample space to accommodate all their needs. We suggested taking advantage of some of the spare room area next door, to enlarge the master bathroom. The remaining area of that spare room became a dressing room with new windows to allow daylight and to join new custom closet room. Another desire was separate his and her commode/bidet rooms. We designed two dedicated areas for them with a middle area provided for a large set of whirlpools under the window. The remaining space from adjacent room turned into a large gorgeous floor to ceiling, stone covered walk-in shower with multi showerheads, rain shower, body spray and other amenities. Adjacent to the left, there is a large wall covered with double vanities, custom cabinets, glamorous lighting and other features. We added large scale porcelain floor tiles with heated floors, decorative glass accent of shower and vanity walls. A frost glass door to the master bathroom, toilet room and dressing area allows maximum daylight into this distinct and classy master bathroom. Additionally, vanity walls with vessel sink, wall mount faucet and wallpaper looking custom back wall tile finishes this master bathroom.

This couple dreamt of having a spa-like master bathroom for their home. Their prior master bathroom was limited and did not have ample space to accommodate all their needs. We suggested taking advantage of some of the spare room area next door, to enlarge the master bathroom. The remaining area of that spare room became a dressing room with new windows to allow daylight and to join new custom closet room. Another desire was separate his and her commode/bidet rooms. We designed two dedicated areas for them with a middle area provided for a large set of whirlpools under the window. The remaining space from adjacent room turned into a large gorgeous floor to ceiling, stone covered walk-in shower with multi showerheads, rain shower, body spray and other amenities. Adjacent to the left, there is a large wall covered with double vanities, custom cabinets, glamorous lighting and other features. We added large scale porcelain floor tiles with heated floors, decorative glass accent of shower and vanity walls. A frost glass door to the master bathroom, toilet room and dressing area allows maximum daylight into this distinct and classy master bathroom. Additionally, vanity walls with vessel sink, wall mount faucet and wallpaper looking custom back wall tile finishes this master bathroom.