Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

This is a view of the living and dining room area.
Living room - large contemporary open concept light wood floor and brown floor living room idea in Los Angeles with white walls, a standard fireplace and a metal fireplace

Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

We were hired to design a Northern Michigan home for our clients to retire. They wanted an inviting “Mountain Rustic” style that would offer a casual, warm and inviting feeling while also taking advantage of the view of nearby Deer Lake. Most people downsize in retirement, but for our clients more space was a virtue. The main level provides a large kitchen that flows into open concept dining and living. With all their family and visitors, ample entertaining and gathering space was necessary. A cozy three-season room which also opens onto a large deck provide even more space. The bonus room above the attached four car garage was a perfect spot for a bunk room. A finished lower level provided even more space for the grandkids to claim as their own, while the main level master suite allows grandma and grandpa to have their own retreat. Rustic details like a reclaimed lumber wall that includes six different varieties of wood, large fireplace, exposed beams and antler chandelier lend to the rustic feel our client’s desired. Ultimately, we were able to capture and take advantage of as many views as possible while also maintaining the cozy and warm atmosphere on the interior. This gorgeous home with abundant space makes it easy for our clients to enjoy the company of their five children and seven grandchildren who come from near and far to enjoy the home. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

The homeowners of this condo sought our assistance when downsizing from a large family home on Howe Sound to a small urban condo in Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver. They asked us to incorporate many of their precious antiques and art pieces into the new design. Our challenges here were twofold; first, how to deal with the unconventional curved floor plan with vast South facing windows that provide a 180 degree view of downtown Vancouver, and second, how to successfully merge an eclectic collection of antique pieces into a modern setting. We began by updating most of their artwork with new matting and framing. We created a gallery effect by grouping like artwork together and displaying larger pieces on the sections of wall between the windows, lighting them with black wall sconces for a graphic effect. We re-upholstered their antique seating with more contemporary fabrics choices - a gray flannel on their Victorian fainting couch and a fun orange chenille animal print on their Louis style chairs. We selected black as an accent colour for many of the accessories as well as the dining room wall to give the space a sophisticated modern edge. The new pieces that we added, including the sofa, coffee table and dining light fixture are mid century inspired, bridging the gap between old and new. White walls and understated wallpaper provide the perfect backdrop for the colourful mix of antique pieces. Interior Design by Lori Steeves, Simply Home Decorating. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography

When a new widow decided to move, she found a near perfect house to downsize to in Rossmoor, a gated community in Walnut Creek. A well-executed renovation helped to make it home—one that reminded her of her previous home in Berkeley, but smaller and easier to manage. Luckily, the original layout of the house worked for the client, so for the most part, she only needed to update the look and feel of the rooms. The house was remodeled with new White Oak hardwood flooring, new windows with white wood shutters, and new doors and hardware throughout. Every room also received a fresh coat of paint. As a very talented painter, the client mixed her own custom colors, which Gayler Design Build gladly applied for her. The primary bathroom was remodeled with Fantasy Brown Quartzite, white raised panel cabinets and American handmade decorative ceramic tile from Pratt & Larson. Incorporating universal design features, Gayler Design Build installed grab bars for the shower and toilet, a versatile hand-held showerhead, a shower bench, and lever-style door handles and faucets.

The homeowners of this condo sought our assistance when downsizing from a large family home on Howe Sound to a small urban condo in Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver. They asked us to incorporate many of their precious antiques and art pieces into the new design. Our challenges here were twofold; first, how to deal with the unconventional curved floor plan with vast South facing windows that provide a 180 degree view of downtown Vancouver, and second, how to successfully merge an eclectic collection of antique pieces into a modern setting. We began by updating most of their artwork with new matting and framing. We created a gallery effect by grouping like artwork together and displaying larger pieces on the sections of wall between the windows, lighting them with black wall sconces for a graphic effect. We re-upholstered their antique seating with more contemporary fabrics choices - a gray flannel on their Victorian fainting couch and a fun orange chenille animal print on their Louis style chairs. We selected black as an accent colour for many of the accessories as well as the dining room wall to give the space a sophisticated modern edge. The new pieces that we added, including the sofa, coffee table and dining light fixture are mid century inspired, bridging the gap between old and new. White walls and understated wallpaper provide the perfect backdrop for the colourful mix of antique pieces. Interior Design by Lori Steeves, Simply Home Decorating. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography

Hill Country Retreat, Rustic Kitchen with Stone Cooktop Surround Kristy Mastrandonas Interior Design & Styling
Inspiration for a large rustic kitchen remodel in Austin with a farmhouse sink, raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and two islands

The clients wanted a traditional bathroom that felt fresh, sophisticated and more spacious. Designer Mary Maney, CKD, ASID, removed the rarely used bathtub and downsized from two sinks to one. This gained counter top space and the ability to add wall cabinets for storage. Pocket doors were added to keep the room more open and spacious. To create a fresh new look, a color palette of white and green was selected. With the addition of a clear glass shower surround, the new shower feels much larger. One wall of the shower is covered in jade-green marble mosaic tile. The remaining walls have a vinyl wallcovering that looks like hand-woven linen in a soft shade of green. A traditional faucet and plumbing fixtures were chosen for their timeless beauty and crown moulding encircles the entire room to add the finishing touch to the space.

The owners were downsizing from a large ornate property down the street and were seeking a number of goals. Single story living, modern and open floor plan, comfortable working kitchen, spaces to house their collection of artwork, low maintenance and a strong connection between the interior and the landscape. Working with a long narrow lot adjacent to conservation land, the main living space (16 foot ceiling height at its peak) opens with folding glass doors to a large screen porch that looks out on a courtyard and the adjacent wooded landscape. This gives the home the perception that it is on a much larger lot and provides a great deal of privacy. The transition from the entry to the core of the home provides a natural gallery in which to display artwork and sculpture. Artificial light almost never needs to be turned on during daytime hours and the substantial peaked roof over the main living space is oriented to allow for solar panels not visible from the street or yard.

Ernesto Santalla was approached to create a new home for two Washington, DC lawyers wishing to downsize their living space. The move took them from a row house in Washington's historic Dupont Circle neighborhood to a two bedroom apartment in the vibrant, up-and-coming U Street Corridor. Our task was to transform a rather plain and generic apartment into a custom, sophisticated space in a few strategic moves. Ceiling details serve to define functional areas of the living space without creating divisions. Changing some doors from wood to frosted glass, creates a sense of continuity between spaces, and allows light to travel between spaces. Lighting was inserted strategically, to enhance certain functions of the home. The kitchen was partially enclosed with a plane of frosted glass to create visual separation from the main living space while still allowing natural light to filter in from the expansive wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Color was used to reinforce the architectural intent and simplify spaces, such as the entry, which as many doors and frames. Furniture was selected to blend with the client's collection of heirloom pieces, creating a sophisticated juxtaposition. Statement pieces like a ceiling light from Viabizzuno create impact while maintaining the visual simplicity of our minimal approach. This project was featured in DC Modern Luxury. https://www.modernluxury.com/washington-dc/story/grand-nest Photography by Geoffrey Hodgdon

Living room - traditional living room idea in Los Angeles

The option to downsize was not an option for the empty nesters who have lived in this home for over twenty-five years. Situated in TMR, the sprawling home has been the venue for many social events, dinner parties and family celebrations. With grown children living abroad, and grand children on the way, it was important that the new kitchen be highly functional and conducive to hosting informal, yet large family gatherings. The kitchen had been relocated to the garage in the late eighties during a large renovation and was looking tired. Eight foot concrete ceilings meant the new materials and design had to create the illusion of height and light. White lacquered doors and integrated fridge panels extend to the ceiling and cast a bright reflection into the room. The teak dining table and chairs were the only elements to preserve from the old kitchen, and influenced the direction of materials to be incorporated into the new design. The island and selected lower cabinetry are made of butternut and oiled in a matte finish that relates to the teak dining set. Oversized tiles on the heated floors resemble soft concrete. The mandate for the second floor included the overhaul of the master ensuite, to create his and hers closets, and a library. Walls were relocated and the floor plan reconfigured to create a luxurious ensuite of dramatic proportions. A walk-in shower, partitioned toilet area, and 18’ vanity are among many details that add visual interest and comfort. Minimal white oak panels wrap around from the bedroom into the ensuite, and integrate two full-height pocket doors in the same material.

The option to downsize was not an option for the empty nesters who have lived in this home for over twenty-five years. Situated in TMR, the sprawling home has been the venue for many social events, dinner parties and family celebrations. With grown children living abroad, and grand children on the way, it was important that the new kitchen be highly functional and conducive to hosting informal, yet large family gatherings. The kitchen had been relocated to the garage in the late eighties during a large renovation and was looking tired. Eight foot concrete ceilings meant the new materials and design had to create the illusion of height and light. White lacquered doors and integrated fridge panels extend to the ceiling and cast a bright reflection into the room. The teak dining table and chairs were the only elements to preserve from the old kitchen, and influenced the direction of materials to be incorporated into the new design. The island and selected lower cabinetry are made of butternut and oiled in a matte finish that relates to the teak dining set. Oversized tiles on the heated floors resemble soft concrete. The mandate for the second floor included the overhaul of the master ensuite, to create his and hers closets, and a library. Walls were relocated and the floor plan reconfigured to create a luxurious ensuite of dramatic proportions. A walk-in shower, partitioned toilet area, and 18’ vanity are among many details that add visual interest and comfort. Minimal white oak panels wrap around from the bedroom into the ensuite, and integrate two full-height pocket doors in the same material.

Ernesto Santalla was approached to create a new home for two Washington, DC lawyers wishing to downsize their living space. The move took them from a row house in Washington's historic Dupont Circle neighborhood to a two bedroom apartment in the vibrant, up-and-coming U Street Corridor. Our task was to transform a rather plain and generic apartment into a custom, sophisticated space in a few strategic moves. Ceiling details serve to define functional areas of the living space without creating divisions. Changing some doors from wood to frosted glass, creates a sense of continuity between spaces, and allows light to travel between spaces. Lighting was inserted strategically, to enhance certain functions of the home. The kitchen was partially enclosed with a plane of frosted glass to create visual separation from the main living space while still allowing natural light to filter in from the expansive wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Color was used to reinforce the architectural intent and simplify spaces, such as the entry, which as many doors and frames. Furniture was selected to blend with the client's collection of heirloom pieces, creating a sophisticated juxtaposition. Statement pieces like a ceiling light from Viabizzuno create impact while maintaining the visual simplicity of our minimal approach. This project was featured in DC Modern Luxury. https://www.modernluxury.com/washington-dc/story/grand-nest Photography by Geoffrey Hodgdon

Photo: Angela Flournoy © 2017 Houzz
1960s living room photo in Dallas