After more than a decade in their new Alexandria home, our clients decided their kitchen was ready for a major refresh, both in form and function. The original stained wood cabinets and granite countertops had served them well, but the traditional design no longer fit with their evolving style which had become less formal and more transitional. The homeowners liked the idea of two-toned kitchen cabinets, so we opted for a combination of pure white and charcoal gray for dramatic contrast. Brushed gold fixtures and statement brass pulls add warmth and sophistication. The distinctive quartzite counters are a showstopper, with unique veining and striking color variation, from blue to gray to ochre. The shimmering 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.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Originally built in 1970, this later-model Eichler—designed by architect Claude Oakland—features a distinctive “Model 14” roofline with a clipped gable, a subtle nod to the charm of English thatch-roof cottages. Acquired from the original owner, the home remained in untouched, original condition—offering a rare opportunity for restoration, but also presenting an urgent need for updates. Our approach was grounded in respect for Oakland’s original design intent, while thoughtfully incorporating essential upgrades to meet modern building codes and today’s lifestyle expectations. Eichler homes were originally built using modest, cost-effective materials to make modern architecture accessible to the growing mid-century middle class. While iconic, elements like laminate countertops, particle board cabinetry, and vinyl composition tile flooring haven’t stood the test of time. We carefully replaced these with more durable, high-quality alternatives—granite countertops, maple-ply cabinets, and luxury vinyl tile—ensuring the home remains true to its spirit while standing strong for decades to come. All images © Ken Gutmaker

The owners of this sleek modern kitchen have lived in this house for decades and came to us with a clearly distinct vision of what they desired for their home. We strived to successfully integrate the oriental contemporary aspects seen throughout the features of their home, while also complimenting the existing warm modern furniture. This minimalistic approach of balancing clean, straight lines effortlessly highlights the various natural materials used within the kitchen to yield an uncluttered serene impression. The space is grounded with a grid of large format porcelain tiles, and the cool tones of gray compliment the veins of marble cladding along the backsplash and walls. A white flush multifunctional utility wall is equipped with an integrated refrigerator, oven, steam oven, and warming drawers. The wall also provides an abundant amount of storage including two tambours purposefully designed as a coffee and prep station, while the other tambour functions as a space for daily appliances. The entirety of the tall wall is framed with recessed wood to emphasis this efficient work zone. Keeping with a sleek design, on the island, we incorporated a flush Wolf grill cooktop that rests flat on the island countertop. Above the dining table, the Logico Triple Nested Suspension light fixture hanging interrupts the structured elements and naturally creates a beautiful organic focal point amongst the flow of clean lines. Photo Credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

Of utmost importance to this client was a home boasting an elegant vibe – highlighting sophisticated furnishings without pretension – but with little-to-no-maintenance. Throughout the house, the designers incorporated performance fabrics that are sustainable for pets and children, offering an elegant ease that transitions from outdoor to indoor. They also focused heavily on the convenience factor, bringing the home deep into technology with media seating for a true media room; custom motorized shades in every room; TVs that reveal with a simple push of a button; and even desks that transition from a standing to seated position. Of course, you can’t have convenience without some glamour, and a former sitting room that was converted into a dressing room will make any woman’s eyes pop with envy. The to-die-for closet features power rods that float down for easy reach, a dressing mirror with wings that fold in and LED lights that change colors, a bench covered in couture fabric for distinctive perching, decadent carpeting and tons of shoe storage.

This handcrafted Walnut conference table combines modern design, premium craftsmanship, and personalized branding to create a professional centerpiece for today's office. Built from solid USA-sourced Walnut, this custom conference table offers a clean, contemporary aesthetic that's equally suited for executive boardrooms, collaborative meeting spaces, design studios, and creative work environments. Its timeless design ensures the table remains as functional as it is visually impressive. Designed and delivered to a client in Grand Blanc, Michigan, the tabletop is custom branded with the designer's logo, creating a refined expression of the company's identity without overwhelming the clean, minimalist design. Supporting the tabletop is a distinctive base crafted from a combination of Walnut and Ash hardwoods, adding subtle contrast, warmth, and architectural interest while maintaining a cohesive contemporary appearance. More than simply a conference room table, this piece was designed to create an environment where ideas are shared, clients are welcomed, and important decisions are made. Every design element—from the carefully selected hardwoods to the integrated branding—works together to reinforce professionalism while reflecting the personality and craftsmanship of the business it represents. Unlike mass-produced conference tables made from laminate, veneer, or particle board, our commercial furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to perform for decades. Every conference table is custom designed around your meeting space, workflow, and brand, resulting in furniture that's impossible to replicate with off-the-shelf alternatives.

This handcrafted Walnut conference table combines modern design, premium craftsmanship, and personalized branding to create a professional centerpiece for today's office. Built from solid USA-sourced Walnut, this custom conference table offers a clean, contemporary aesthetic that's equally suited for executive boardrooms, collaborative meeting spaces, design studios, and creative work environments. Its timeless design ensures the table remains as functional as it is visually impressive. Designed and delivered to a client in Grand Blanc, Michigan, the tabletop is custom branded with the designer's logo, creating a refined expression of the company's identity without overwhelming the clean, minimalist design. Supporting the tabletop is a distinctive base crafted from a combination of Walnut and Ash hardwoods, adding subtle contrast, warmth, and architectural interest while maintaining a cohesive contemporary appearance. More than simply a conference room table, this piece was designed to create an environment where ideas are shared, clients are welcomed, and important decisions are made. Every design element—from the carefully selected hardwoods to the integrated branding—works together to reinforce professionalism while reflecting the personality and craftsmanship of the business it represents. Unlike mass-produced conference tables made from laminate, veneer, or particle board, our commercial furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to perform for decades. Every conference table is custom designed around your meeting space, workflow, and brand, resulting in furniture that's impossible to replicate with off-the-shelf alternatives.

Made in Spain Luna Olive tile is the perfect wall finish to create timelessly sophisticated residential and commercial spaces with a sense of intimacy and comfort. Inspired by handcrafted tile, its high-level color variation instantly uplifts any interior setting with a sumptuous room ambiance. This living room tile holds enormous design potential—leading itself flawlessly to eye-grabbing accent walls, fireplace and bar surrounds, study alcoves, and more. The tile shines on its own but can be paired with the Luna Arc collection for a cohesive yet distinctive point of view. To create a more vibrant space, consider pairing with furnishings that have a greater degree of contrast: think olive accent wall and mustard couch or olive fireplace surround and dark wooden floors. For a bathroom that you use every day, this breathtaking tile delivers a nurturing effect that feels fresh in the morning and cozy at night. A shower wall, bathtub surround, or vanity backdrop covered with olive green tiles is the epitome of understated elegance. Works brilliantly with wooden fittings, brass accessories, and an industrial-style light fixture to conjure a well-appointed space brimming with decadence. Our Luna Olive glazed ceramic tile elevates any kitchen design aesthetic. Show creativity by giving the backsplash a vibrant and characterful touch. Whether you’re looking to add pizzazz to a traditional or modern setting, these glossy tiles will ensure your design project is one of a kind. To keep clean, Tile Club recommends wiping the tiles with a soft cloth and water or ceramic tile cleaner.

This handcrafted Walnut conference table combines modern design, premium craftsmanship, and personalized branding to create a professional centerpiece for today's office. Built from solid USA-sourced Walnut, this custom conference table offers a clean, contemporary aesthetic that's equally suited for executive boardrooms, collaborative meeting spaces, design studios, and creative work environments. Its timeless design ensures the table remains as functional as it is visually impressive. Designed and delivered to a client in Grand Blanc, Michigan, the tabletop is custom branded with the designer's logo, creating a refined expression of the company's identity without overwhelming the clean, minimalist design. Supporting the tabletop is a distinctive base crafted from a combination of Walnut and Ash hardwoods, adding subtle contrast, warmth, and architectural interest while maintaining a cohesive contemporary appearance. More than simply a conference room table, this piece was designed to create an environment where ideas are shared, clients are welcomed, and important decisions are made. Every design element—from the carefully selected hardwoods to the integrated branding—works together to reinforce professionalism while reflecting the personality and craftsmanship of the business it represents. Unlike mass-produced conference tables made from laminate, veneer, or particle board, our commercial furniture is handcrafted from solid hardwood that's built to perform for decades. Every conference table is custom designed around your meeting space, workflow, and brand, resulting in furniture that's impossible to replicate with off-the-shelf alternatives.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”