2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

Product: Authentic Limestone for Exterior Living Spaces. Ancient Surfaces Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com The design of external living spaces is known as the 'Al Fresco' design style as it is called in Italian. 'Al Fresco' translates into 'the open' or 'the cool/fresh exterior'. Customizing a fully functional outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace or Jacuzzi pool spa all out of old reclaimed Mediterranean stone pieces is no easy task and shouldn’t be created out of the lowest common denominator of building materials such as concrete, Indian slates or Turkish travertine. The one thing you can bet the farmhouse on is that when the entire process unravels and when your outdoor living space materializes from the architects rendering to real life, you will be guaranteed a true Mediterranean living experience if your choice of construction material was as authentic and possible to the Southern Mediterranean regions. We believe that the coziness of your surroundings brought about by the creative usage of our antique stone elements will only amplify that authenticity. whether you are enjoying a relaxing time soaking the sun inside one of our Jacuzzi spa stone fountains or sharing unforgettable memories with family and friends while baking your own pizzas in one of our outdoor BBQ pizza ovens, our stone designs will always evoke in most a feeling of euphoria and exultation that one only gets while being on vacation is some exotic European island surrounded with the pristine beauty of indigenous nature and ancient architecture...

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

The joining of two families is a joyous occasion! And when you have an existing home in a lovely neighborhood with space to spare, a thoughtful whole house remodel can make the space work for all eight (and one dog). Thompson Remodeling was happy to help improve the family spaces of this 4-bedroom, 3-level home and create new bedrooms and bath spaces to accommodate everyone. This whole house remodel included renovations to every level of the home, most notably on the main floor and the basement. The big kitchen island allows for helpers in the kitchen as well as seating for five! We placed the refrigerator outside of the main cooking area for easy access by the kids. A layered light plan includes natural light from windows and French doors, overhead recessed lights, and pendant lighting for special tasks. In the living room we converted a window seat into a small alcove to accommodate more comfortable seating for TV viewing. The new dining room fits a table and seating for eight. We also updated the mudroom to a locker room with space for each family member. In the basement we created two new bedrooms for the oldest daughters and updated the bathroom. The new space is like a home of its own where the girls can entertain friends and hangout. On the second level, we created a larger bathroom for the kids to share. One wall is dedicated to built-in storage cabinets to house all their towels, toiletries and laundry hampers.

This twin home was the perfect home for these empty nesters – retro-styled bathrooms, beautiful fireplace and built-ins, and a spectacular garden. The only thing the home was lacking was a functional kitchen space. The old kitchen had three entry points – one to the dining room, one to the back entry, and one to a hallway. The hallway entry was closed off to create a more functional galley style kitchen that isolated traffic running through and allowed for much more countertop and storage space. The clients wanted a transitional style that mimicked their design choices in the rest of the home. A medium wood stained base cabinet was chosen to warm up the space and create contrast against the soft white upper cabinets. The stove was given two resting points on each side, and a large pantry was added for easy-access storage. The original box window at the kitchen sink remains, but the same granite used for the countertops now sits on the sill of the window, as opposed to the old wood sill that showed all water stains and wears. The granite chosen (Nevaska Granite) is a wonderful color mixture of browns, greys, whites, steely blues and a hint of black. A travertine tile backsplash accents the warmth found in the wood tone of the base cabinets and countertops. Elegant lighting was installed as well as task lighting to compliment the bright, natural light in this kitchen. A flip-up work station will be added as another work point for the homeowners – likely to be used for their stand mixer while baking goodies with their grandkids. Wallpaper adds another layer of visual interest and texture. The end result is an elegant and timeless design that the homeowners will gladly use for years to come. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

I designed this ADA master bathroom and assisted the homeowner in making all of the fixture, material and finish choices while working at Corvallis Custom Kitchens and Baths. Our client wanted to update this master bathroom for her to use and be able to live in comfortably as she gets older. We installed a frameless glass shower with a fixed panel over a 1/2 height wall and a hinged door. A linear drain allows for a zero threshold entry into the shower allowing for the bather to enter without any barrier to step over. We installed an American Standard Cadet Pro Right Height toilet and placed blocking in the wall for grab bars (one with a toilet paper holder) could be installed. Maple flat panel cabinetry was installed with a linen cabinet and with Silestone Phoenix quuartz countertops and backsplash with a Kohler Caxton undermount sinks with a Moen single handle faucets. Grab bars were installed in the shower stall and at the entry to the shower, along with a Speakman grab bar shower system with Hansgrohe shower controls. Two combo niches for shampoo and such was installed close to the handheld showerhead for easy access and near the rear of the shower. LED lighting was added to the shower area on it's own dimmer switch. Three additional LED fixtures were installed between the mirrors to provide excellent task lighting for anyone using the vanity. We added a pocket door to separate the bathroom from the master bedroom.

These are just a couple of images from this project. I worked with a couple relocating to Hong Kong who wanted to move into their new rental as quickly as possible. They brought some pieces with them from New York and had the info available ,so I was able to work on space planning , layouts and design or furniture, artwork and decor whilst it was being shipped. The client was very happy " "Emma has helped me to decorate my apartment in Repulse Bay. It was not an easy task as we had brought a chunk of furniture from New York, and I wasn't entirely happy with some of them. But she worked with them and created such space that looks so cohesive, everything looks almost like we got them together all at once. She thought about different options and choices so carefully before presenting to me, I didn't even have to go back and forth with her at all, which saved a lot of time and effort. I instantly liked everything she picked. She has a great taste, and carefully listens to you and really understands what you want for your home. I'd highly recommend her to anyone that wants to create a lovely home."

2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

In coming to Minnesota from Iceland, the owners of Home 4 found themselves more than 3,000 miles away from home, hoping to build something new – literally and figuratively – that would feel like home for their family of five. They purchased a scenic piece of land in Rochester and identified a general idea of the spaces they would need, but they struggled with how to define a sense of character that would incorporate their culture and identity into the design. The architect-led design team was tasked with creating a house that would help establish the homeowners’ roots in a new country while still recalling familiar comforts of their heritage. The result is a warm family home that combines elements of Nordic design with a touch of American farmhouse aesthetic. Gracious proportions, custom woodworking, and cheerful details create a welcoming atmosphere, while modern conveniences like a large mudroom and second-floor laundry help day-to-day life feel easy. Around each corner, a new detail greets the eye, from the Lundie-inspired column at the staircase, to the double-heart detail inscribed in the woodwork, to the custom table designed for the breakfast nook. Each element is lovely individually, but experiencing the holistic effect as the details intentionally pair and play together helps to craft a house that feels like home. Most important, the homeowners’ history, heritage, and hopes are melded together into a home that represents their family. Each unique element and carefully considered material combine to form a house that feels as if it could have belonged to this family for generations, even though it is brand new.

A compact built-in desk gives this playful bedroom a dedicated place for homework, reading and creative projects without taking space away from sleeping or play. Positioned beside the window, the workspace benefits from natural light while remaining visually integrated with the bed and surrounding millwork. The bold red floating metal shelf incorporates a concealed LED strip that illuminates the desk surface below, providing practical task lighting while introducing the client’s favorite color. A black laminate insert protects the desktop from the everyday wear of markers, art supplies and school projects, creating a durable and easy-to-maintain work surface. Custom birch cabinetry combines open shelving with concealed storage, providing flexibility in what is displayed and what is kept out of sight. Books, toys and favorite collections can remain visible, while less decorative items are tucked away to prevent the compact room from feeling visually overwhelming. The result is a hardworking workspace designed to remain organized and adapt as the child’s interests evolve.

The spacious laundry and mudroom was designed to serve as a highly functional transition space between the garage and the main living areas while maintaining the home’s cohesive modern rustic aesthetic. Durable wood-look flooring, soft blue-gray walls, and dark stained trim create a warm and inviting atmosphere that elevates the utility-focused space. A large utility sink and surrounding cabinetry provide practical storage and workspace for everyday household tasks, while the extended wall-mounted shelving offers abundant organization for laundry supplies, outdoor gear, and seasonal storage. Matte black cabinet hardware adds contrast and complements the darker interior doors for a clean, modern look. The generous layout allows for easy movement and flexibility, creating a hardworking space that accommodates laundry, storage, and mudroom functionality without feeling cramped. Positioned directly off the garage entry, the room was thoughtfully designed to help contain daily clutter while providing a durable and efficient landing zone for an active lifestyle. The result is a bright, organized, and highly practical utility space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the home’s custom design details.

The joining of two families is a joyous occasion! And when you have an existing home in a lovely neighborhood with space to spare, a thoughtful whole house remodel can make the space work for all eight (and one dog). Thompson Remodeling was happy to help improve the family spaces of this 4-bedroom, 3-level home and create new bedrooms and bath spaces to accommodate everyone. This whole house remodel included renovations to every level of the home, most notably on the main floor and the basement. The big kitchen island allows for helpers in the kitchen as well as seating for five! We placed the refrigerator outside of the main cooking area for easy access by the kids. A layered light plan includes natural light from windows and French doors, overhead recessed lights, and pendant lighting for special tasks. In the living room we converted a window seat into a small alcove to accommodate more comfortable seating for TV viewing. The new dining room fits a table and seating for eight. We also updated the mudroom to a locker room with space for each family member. In the basement we created two new bedrooms for the oldest daughters and updated the bathroom. The new space is like a home of its own where the girls can entertain friends and hangout. On the second level, we created a larger bathroom for the kids to share. One wall is dedicated to built-in storage cabinets to house all their towels, toiletries and laundry hampers.

The joining of two families is a joyous occasion! And when you have an existing home in a lovely neighborhood with space to spare, a thoughtful whole house remodel can make the space work for all eight (and one dog). Thompson Remodeling was happy to help improve the family spaces of this 4-bedroom, 3-level home and create new bedrooms and bath spaces to accommodate everyone. This whole house remodel included renovations to every level of the home, most notably on the main floor and the basement. The big kitchen island allows for helpers in the kitchen as well as seating for five! We placed the refrigerator outside of the main cooking area for easy access by the kids. A layered light plan includes natural light from windows and French doors, overhead recessed lights, and pendant lighting for special tasks. In the living room we converted a window seat into a small alcove to accommodate more comfortable seating for TV viewing. The new dining room fits a table and seating for eight. We also updated the mudroom to a locker room with space for each family member. In the basement we created two new bedrooms for the oldest daughters and updated the bathroom. The new space is like a home of its own where the girls can entertain friends and hangout. On the second level, we created a larger bathroom for the kids to share. One wall is dedicated to built-in storage cabinets to house all their towels, toiletries and laundry hampers.

2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

Laundry chores involve more than just washing and drying clothes. With careful planning and effective organization, your laundry room can become a streamlined and pleasant space. Our solutions optimize your laundry area by providing countertop convenience for sorting and folding clothes, making tasks smoother and more enjoyable. Hidden storage in the form of enclosed cabinets above or around the machines keeps laundry supplies within reach but out of sight, while comprehensive storage options like cabinets and drawers accommodate everyday items. Tall cabinets store bulkier or seasonal items, ensuring the room remains clutter-free. To further enhance functionality, we offer quick ironing solutions with pull-down ironing boards for convenient touch-ups. Hanging solutions, including pull-down or stationary rods, make it easy to hang clothes and keep them wrinkle-free. Versatile valet rods provide extra hanging space and can be tucked away when not needed. Additionally, pull-out baskets or hampers help maintain cleanliness by keeping dirty laundry items separated. Large hampers simplify sorting for whites, colors, and other categories, promoting a well-organized laundry process. At The Tailored Closet, we specialize in maximizing space and style in laundry room designs. Our expertise ensures that your laundry area is both efficient and elegant. Let us help transform your laundry room into a well-organized and attractive space. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

These are just a couple of images from this project. I worked with a couple relocating to Hong Kong who wanted to move into their new rental as quickly as possible. They brought some pieces with them from New York and had the info available ,so I was able to work on space planning , layouts and design or furniture, artwork and decor whilst it was being shipped. The client was very happy " "Emma has helped me to decorate my apartment in Repulse Bay. It was not an easy task as we had brought a chunk of furniture from New York, and I wasn't entirely happy with some of them. But she worked with them and created such space that looks so cohesive, everything looks almost like we got them together all at once. She thought about different options and choices so carefully before presenting to me, I didn't even have to go back and forth with her at all, which saved a lot of time and effort. I instantly liked everything she picked. She has a great taste, and carefully listens to you and really understands what you want for your home. I'd highly recommend her to anyone that wants to create a lovely home."

The joining of two families is a joyous occasion! And when you have an existing home in a lovely neighborhood with space to spare, a thoughtful whole house remodel can make the space work for all eight (and one dog). Thompson Remodeling was happy to help improve the family spaces of this 4-bedroom, 3-level home and create new bedrooms and bath spaces to accommodate everyone. This whole house remodel included renovations to every level of the home, most notably on the main floor and the basement. The big kitchen island allows for helpers in the kitchen as well as seating for five! We placed the refrigerator outside of the main cooking area for easy access by the kids. A layered light plan includes natural light from windows and French doors, overhead recessed lights, and pendant lighting for special tasks. In the living room we converted a window seat into a small alcove to accommodate more comfortable seating for TV viewing. The new dining room fits a table and seating for eight. We also updated the mudroom to a locker room with space for each family member. In the basement we created two new bedrooms for the oldest daughters and updated the bathroom. The new space is like a home of its own where the girls can entertain friends and hangout. On the second level, we created a larger bathroom for the kids to share. One wall is dedicated to built-in storage cabinets to house all their towels, toiletries and laundry hampers.

The joining of two families is a joyous occasion! And when you have an existing home in a lovely neighborhood with space to spare, a thoughtful whole house remodel can make the space work for all eight (and one dog). Thompson Remodeling was happy to help improve the family spaces of this 4-bedroom, 3-level home and create new bedrooms and bath spaces to accommodate everyone. This whole house remodel included renovations to every level of the home, most notably on the main floor and the basement. The big kitchen island allows for helpers in the kitchen as well as seating for five! We placed the refrigerator outside of the main cooking area for easy access by the kids. A layered light plan includes natural light from windows and French doors, overhead recessed lights, and pendant lighting for special tasks. In the living room we converted a window seat into a small alcove to accommodate more comfortable seating for TV viewing. The new dining room fits a table and seating for eight. We also updated the mudroom to a locker room with space for each family member. In the basement we created two new bedrooms for the oldest daughters and updated the bathroom. The new space is like a home of its own where the girls can entertain friends and hangout. On the second level, we created a larger bathroom for the kids to share. One wall is dedicated to built-in storage cabinets to house all their towels, toiletries and laundry hampers.