Search results for "Effective impact" in Home Design Ideas

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill
This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life.
Understanding Their Needs:
From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved.
Addressing Their Concerns:
We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises.
Our Personalized Solutions:
We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires:
● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience.
● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine.
● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience.
● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating
countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives.
● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
Navigating the Challenges Together:
Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions
and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process.
The Joy of Transformation:
The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience.
A Space to Cherish:
The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together.
Memorable Moments and Hiccups:
● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

The juxtaposition of glossy charcoal concrete floors against pristine white walls and soaring ceilings sets a striking contemporary backdrop. Introducing organic elements alongside bold pops of color is a savvy move to infuse warmth and personality into the space while ensuring a timeless appeal. Incorporating luxury furnishings with modern lines elevates the aesthetic and ensures functionality and comfort.
Artwork and taller plants and accessories serve as impactful focal points, effectively balancing the grandeur of the soaring ceilings while adding visual interest and depth to the rooms. The fusion of sleek design with comfort and livability creates a harmonious environment that's both inviting and stylish. The space is aesthetically pleasing and tailored to the new homeowners' lifestyle and preferences—a true modern masterpiece!

This beautiful botanical mural was installed in the foyer area of our client's home outside of Columbia.
This area is now more open to another natural world. A take on biophilic design, the space frees you as soon as you walk in the front door!
According to this article from Science Direct, the effects of the biophilic indoor environment has a more restorative impact especially when it comes to stress and anxiety.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412019336347
Find the right local pro for your project

The idea for Scandinavian Hardwoods came after years of countless conversations with homeowners, designers, architects, and builders. The consistent theme: they wanted more than just a beautiful floor. They wanted insight into manufacturing locations (not just the seller or importer) and what materials are used and why. They wanted to understand the product’s environmental impact and it’s effect on indoor air quality and human health. They wanted a compelling story to tell guests about the beautiful floor they’ve chosen. At Scandinavian Hardwoods, we bring all of these elements together while making luxury more accessible.

The client came to us looking to update their kitchen and kitchenette in order to match recent changes made to the rest of their 1905 Cow Hollow home. Their goal? Build a space that was impressive and grand.
We chose classic luxury cues—golds and marbles—for the two kitchens and consulted on colors, light fixtures, and furniture throughout the rest of their home to marry the various spaces.
In the main kitchen, we created a focal point using a faux marble Calacatta Neolith bookmatch backsplash, an impactful piece that created that arresting effect the client sought at half the cost of real marble.
We paired that with simple, understated but rich accessories, like a sleek and simple oven hood that wouldn’t obstruct the backsplash and glossy, sterling grey cabinets with polished nickel accents. For a final touch of flair, we hung two ochre NYC 3-Tier Pear Chandeliers.
Together, these pieces cemented the look. High-Chic. Simple. Modern. Iconic.

Using low and maintenance-free materials, these two Norton, MA deck renovation projects will have lasting impact. Our clients hired us to create a space to be used for entertaining and relaxation. We built a 12×12 deck onto their brand-new above ground pool. As premier deck contractors, we designed and built this beautiful, modern and maintenance free deck using AZEK PVC decking. AZEK has a natural wood look and is engineered to last longer than alternative materials like pressure-treated wood. Lead Designer, Jason Hoffman, worked with the Norton, MA homeowners through the Design phase and produced a simple, yet effective and classic design.

Our doors offer several key advantages:
- The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms.
- Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress.
- High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration.
Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles.
Model - 0188 Iron
Color - Black
Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; This model has a strong, balanced look with six horizontal glass openings that add rhythm and light to the solid iron surface. The long pull handle runs in line with the door’s clean geometry, giving it a confident, well-proportioned appearance that fits both contemporary and transitional exteriors.
Door thickness - 3 11/16"
Frame thickness - 3 13/16"
Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal.
Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal.
Hardware included:
- Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82".
- Aluminum threshold.
- Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys.
- Cylinder.
- 3D Hinges.
- Turnknob for lock.
- Armor plate for the lock.
- 2 Long Black Pull Handles
VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on.
Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site.
A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Our doors offer several key advantages:
- The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms.
- Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress.
- High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration.
Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles.
Model - 0188 Iron
Color - Black
Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; This model has a strong, balanced look with six horizontal glass openings that add rhythm and light to the solid iron surface. The long pull handle runs in line with the door’s clean geometry, giving it a confident, well-proportioned appearance that fits both contemporary and transitional exteriors.
Door thickness - 3 11/16"
Frame thickness - 3 13/16"
Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal.
Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal.
Hardware included:
- Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82".
- Aluminum threshold.
- Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys.
- Cylinder.
- 3D Hinges.
- Turnknob for lock.
- Armor plate for the lock.
- 2 Long Black Pull Handles
VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on.
Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site.
A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

3D Design Rendering of construction
Using low and maintenance-free materials, these two Norton, MA deck renovation projects will have lasting impact. Our clients hired us to create a space to be used for entertaining and relaxation. We built a 12×12 deck onto their brand-new above ground pool. As premier deck contractors, we designed and built this beautiful, modern and maintenance free deck using AZEK PVC decking. AZEK has a natural wood look and is engineered to last longer than alternative materials like pressure-treated wood. Lead Designer, Jason Hoffman, worked with the Norton, MA homeowners through the Design phase and produced a simple, yet effective and classic design.

We had the honor to work with one of the best tiles designer from U.S., Suzi Stern Portugal. She and her husband they bought a house a year ago in Toms River, NJ. They made all the necessary renovations and they design the house in such a way that you feel relaxed and calm, because they brought the outside colors in and everything matches very well.
The blue of the ocean and the sky works beautifully as a backdrop to their open concept kitchen and because is so much light in this house, Suzi decided to use glass to reflect the light and to create a high-impact effect.
They have an incredible view , but now the kitchen backsplash takes your eyes !

VIEW AS WE MOVE INTO KITCHEN BEHIND FREESTANDING WALL.....FULL-HEIGHT GLASS TILE BACKSPLASH REALLY "POPS" WHEN ACCENTUATED BY UNDERCABINET LIGHTING.....NOTE "IN/OUT" EFFECT WITH STAGGERED DEPTHS ON WALL CABINETS.....REALLY STANDS OUT WITH CATHEDRAL CEILING.....DARK WOOD CABS. ARE SO VERY IMPACTFUL.

Dimension:
64" L X 16" D X 32" H
Chic, sleek, and sophisticated in its rustic appeal, our Bakersfield Rustic Reclaimed Wood 3 Drawer 64" Large Sideboard Cabinet will definitely blow you away.
The artfully unadorned design of this sideboard buffet is extremely attractive. You can place it in your dining rooms for serve-ware, crockery, and cutlery storage. However, it can also be used to accentuate a plain living room wall, an empty corridor, or even an oversized entrance foyer. It has been handcrafted out of reclaimed wood, so it’s extremely sturdy and offers a sustainable constitution.
The top frame of this rustic buffet has an ebony iron band just underneath its base. You can add more visual impact to it by showcasing metal accented trinkets and baubles on it. The main body consists of 2 single-door cabinets with 2 internal compartments on both the left and the right side. Here you can keep various personal effects depending on where you place it. There are 3 pullout drawers in the center where you can keep cutlery,
small bottles, stationery, documents, and other things. The base of this sideboard buffet is made out of hand-wrought iron and comprises of straightforward feet that provide great overall balance.
Special Features:
• 100% Handcrafted
• Solid reclaimed wood craftsmanship
• Artfully distressed finish
• Smooth top frame with an iron filigree
• 2 single-door cabinets with 2 internal compartments
• 3 pullout drawers in the middle
• Iron base
• Heirloom quality
• Easy maintenance
Note: Custom Options such as Size, Shape, Shade & Design are not applicable to this item. Reclaimed Wood Furniture is subjected to have Slight Variations. Real wood is a product of nature, and as such, no two pieces are alike. Variations in solid wood grain patterns are to be expected and make each furniture uniquely beautiful, just like us humans.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Dark painted wall behind fireplace is an impactful but cost-effective alternative to tile
Inspiration for a modern enclosed medium tone wood floor living room remodel in Calgary with gray walls and a ribbon fireplace
Inspiration for a modern enclosed medium tone wood floor living room remodel in Calgary with gray walls and a ribbon fireplace

- GLORY SIDEBOARD. The Glory sideboard completes a living room area. Available in mocha oak, canaletto walnut or sucupira wood and is enriched by metal details in micaceous brown stained or galvanized titanium. Although its structure seems thin, it is of great impact. Doors and drawers are covered in Leonardo leather.
Dimensions: 93"1/8W x 19"1/2D x 32"H.
https://cassoni.com/glory_sideboard_01
- VANITY FAIR MIRROR. The Vanity Fair mirror is made of mirrored or smoked glass. Its cover in velvet gives an effect of discreet preciousness and beauty, and contrasts with the simple rhomboidal line. The mirror can be single, double and triple or even placed side by side along a wall.
Available in three different sizes.
https://cassoni.com/vanity_fair_mirror_02
- EMILY CHAIR. Rigorous geometry characterizes the Emily chair, with a wide seat and a low back that can be upholstered in leatherette (black, white, dark brown and licorice) or in vegetable-tanned leather (Dirt and Tribe).
Dimensions: 18"7/8W x 20"D x 31"1/2H.
https://cassoni.com/emily_chair_01

The Marin Villa Pool Project stands out with a dynamic design approach that blends shades of blue with modern architecture. The Marin Series used on the pool floor adds a lively and clear effect to the water through transitions of different blue tones. With its Low Water Absorption, the surface ensures long-lasting use and provides resistance to UV Resistance, chemicals, and thermal shocks. The PTV ≥ 45° Non-slip value offers safe use in wet areas. In the transitions, Marin Series Outer Trim, Scoth Outer Corner, and Outer Angle Corner elements ensure both technical and visual integrity. Along the pool edges, Pool Garden Grey Petit Carre Copings and monoblock hidden grating organize the overflow lines, offering both functionality and aesthetic continuity. Around the pool, Pool Garden Grey Porcelain Anti Slip Terrace Tiles complete the architectural lines of the space with the modern impact of grey tones.

Using low and maintenance-free materials, these two Norton, MA deck renovation projects will have lasting impact. Our clients hired us to create a space to be used for entertaining and relaxation. We built a 12×12 deck onto their brand-new above ground pool. As premier deck contractors, we designed and built this beautiful, modern and maintenance free deck using AZEK PVC decking. AZEK has a natural wood look and is engineered to last longer than alternative materials like pressure-treated wood. Lead Designer, Jason Hoffman, worked with the Norton, MA homeowners through the Design phase and produced a simple, yet effective and classic design.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

The juxtaposition of glossy charcoal concrete floors against pristine white walls and soaring ceilings sets a striking contemporary backdrop. Introducing organic elements alongside bold pops of color is a savvy move to infuse warmth and personality into the space while ensuring a timeless appeal. Incorporating luxury furnishings with modern lines elevates the aesthetic and ensures functionality and comfort.
Artwork and taller plants and accessories serve as impactful focal points, effectively balancing the grandeur of the soaring ceilings while adding visual interest and depth to the rooms. The fusion of sleek design with comfort and livability creates a harmonious environment that's both inviting and stylish. The space is aesthetically pleasing and tailored to the new homeowners' lifestyle and preferences—a true modern masterpiece!

The client came to us looking to update their kitchen and kitchenette in order to match recent changes made to the rest of their 1905 Cow Hollow home. Their goal? Build a space that was impressive and grand.
We chose classic luxury cues—golds and marbles—for the two kitchens and consulted on colors, light fixtures, and furniture throughout the rest of their home to marry the various spaces.
In the main kitchen, we created a focal point using a faux marble Calacatta Neolith bookmatch backsplash, an impactful piece that created that arresting effect the client sought at half the cost of real marble.
We paired that with simple, understated but rich accessories, like a sleek and simple oven hood that wouldn’t obstruct the backsplash and glossy, sterling grey cabinets with polished nickel accents. For a final touch of flair, we hung two ochre NYC 3-Tier Pear Chandeliers.
Together, these pieces cemented the look. High-Chic. Simple. Modern. Iconic.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill
This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life.
Understanding Their Needs:
From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved.
Addressing Their Concerns:
We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises.
Our Personalized Solutions:
We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires:
● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience.
● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine.
● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience.
● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating
countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives.
● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
Navigating the Challenges Together:
Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions
and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process.
The Joy of Transformation:
The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience.
A Space to Cherish:
The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together.
Memorable Moments and Hiccups:
● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.
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