The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

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.”

This pool and spa is built in an affluent neighborhood with many new homes that are traditional in design but have modern, clean details. Similar to the homes, this pool takes a traditional pool and gives it a clean, modern twist. The site proved to be perfect for a long lap pool that the client desired with plenty of room for a separate spa. The two bodies of water, though separate, are visually linked together by a custom limestone raised water feature wall with 10 custom Bobe water scuppers. Quality workmanship as required throughout the entire build to ensure the automatic pool cover would remain square the entire 50 foot length of the pool. Features of this pool and environment that enhance the aesthetic appeal of this project include: -Glass waterline tile -Glass seat and bench tile -Glass tile swim lane marking on pool floor -Custom limestone coping and deck -PebbleTec pool finish -Synthetic Turf Lawn This outdoor environment cohesively brings the clean & modern finishes of the home seamlessly to the outdoors to a pool and spa for play, exercise and relaxation. Photography: Daniel Driensky

Beach style home design photo in Orange County

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

- DURING - When Ruthie and her husband moved into a new home about three years ago, it didn’t require much fixing up. But the carpeting in the upstairs living room served as a constant reminder that the previous owners had dogs. Ruthie’s No. 1 priority in a new floor was that it had to be easy to install. She remembered her good friend and fellow blogger telling her that she had installed Allure herself in her own home. After Ruthie and her husband installed their new Allure flooring, they realized Tara wasn’t exaggerating. Ruthie says that she loves the way the flooring looks in her home as well as the easy maintenance of it. Ruthie chose to install Allure Luxury Vinyl Flooring in Brushed Oak Taupe. Click the link below to find this flooring exclusively through The Home Depot: https://thd.co/2wm4VRE

The beautiful Westside of Santa Cruz is known for surfing, beaches and homes with small lots. Our main project goal was to maximize outdoor space and create additional rooms that would enlarge the overall living space in this cottage just steps from the beach. Large family gatherings, lots of grandkids and a few dogs inspired a walkable groundcover "lawn". We chose a light colored flagstone for the patio to contrast with the blue home. A long wall serves the dual purpose of additional seating and containing tall, thin plants that create privacy and a sense of enclosure. Plantings provide year-round color in primarily blues and yellows, and require very little water. With our perfect climate, nobody wants to stay indoors, and now this family is utilizing their space to the fullest extent!

This Urban Farmhouse custom home is located in an award winning mixed-use community just minutes from downtown Austin, TX. The client is a busy executive who travels weekly and, due to her busy schedule, she turned over the design of her home to us and asked us to make all of the decisions regarding finishes and furnishings. She wanted the home to be model-home ready when she moved in and wanted it all to be a surprise. We did require that she at least tell us what colors she liked and how she wanted the home to function. She told us that she loves turquoise, that she wanted her dog Daisy’s shower to be “special”, that the loft was going to be her dance studio and one of the bedrooms a home office. After that we were on our own. Daisy’s shower was at the end of the downstairs hallway so we had the walls painted with whimsical stripes that led to a turquoise barn door outside of the shower room - Daisy loves it and so does the client. The end result is an eclectic mix of colors and finishes that fit the owner’s personality and style. Photos by Rachel Kay

A wall bed and a hobby cart for your home! Let Closet Trends of Tucson help you transform any room in your home!
Example of a mid-sized classic freestanding desk craft room design in Phoenix

This Cobble Hill Brownstone for a family of five is a fun and captivating design, the perfect blend of the wife’s love of English country style and the husband’s preference for modern. The young power couple, her the co-founder of Maisonette and him an investor, have three children and a dog, requiring that all the surfaces, finishes and, materials used throughout the home are both beautiful and durable to make every room a carefree space the whole family can enjoy. The primary design challenge for this project was creating both distinct places for the family to live their day to day lives and also a whole floor dedicated to formal entertainment. The clients entertain large dinners on a monthly basis as part of their profession. We solved this by adding an extension on the Garden and Parlor levels. This allowed the Garden level to function as the daily family operations center and the Parlor level to be party central. The kitchen on the garden level is large enough to dine in and accommodate a large catering crew. On the parlor level, we created a large double parlor in the front of the house; this space is dedicated to cocktail hour and after-dinner drinks. The rear of the parlor is a spacious formal dining room that can seat up to 14 guests. The middle "library" space contains a bar and facilitates access to both the front and rear rooms; in this way, it can double as a staging area for the parties. The remaining three floors are sleeping quarters for the family and frequent out of town guests. Designing a row house for private and public functions programmatically returns the building to a configuration in line with its original design. This project was published in Architectural Digest. Photography by Sam Frost

Roof top deck in Baltimore County, Maryland: This stunning roof top deck now provides a beautiful outdoor living space with all the amenities the homeowner was looking for as well as added value to the home. Curtis Martin Photo Inc.

Perched high above the Islington Golf course, on a quiet cul-de-sac, this contemporary residential home is all about bringing the outdoor surroundings in. In keeping with the French style, a metal and slate mansard roofline dominates the façade, while inside, an open concept main floor split across three elevations, is punctuated by reclaimed rough hewn fir beams and a herringbone dark walnut floor. The elegant kitchen includes Calacatta marble countertops, Wolf range, SubZero glass paned refrigerator, open walnut shelving, blue/black cabinetry with hand forged bronze hardware and a larder with a SubZero freezer, wine fridge and even a dog bed. The emphasis on wood detailing continues with Pella fir windows framing a full view of the canopy of trees that hang over the golf course and back of the house. This project included a full reimagining of the backyard landscaping and features the use of Thermory decking and a refurbished in-ground pool surrounded by dark Eramosa limestone. Design elements include the use of three species of wood, warm metals, various marbles, bespoke lighting fixtures and Canadian art as a focal point within each space. The main walnut waterfall staircase features a custom hand forged metal railing with tuning fork spindles. The end result is a nod to the elegance of French Country, mixed with the modern day requirements of a family of four and two dogs!