This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable. At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture. The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections. Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic. Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space. The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.

We Minnesotans understand that winters can be long, cold, and dark. Sunshine is a precious commodity in the middle of February. We designed the second-floor addition to let the sunshine in and make this the brightest room in the home. Two skylights were added to the stair well, with three more in the new addition. The second-floor landing was extended into the new space. Following the home’s existing architecture, this new 300 sq. ft. room features dormers with high-efficiency windows. Additional storage was created with several built-in closets in both the hallway and the addition. These photos were taken in March. With all the skylights facing the South, you can imagine how bright this room will be year-round. The remodeled staircase leads to the second floor and the new addition. The stair's risers, handrail, and banister are white, a master design detail that flows from the first floor to the second. The stair treads and new room flooring are constructed with 1 ½ inch solid Red Oak, an excellent choice that soaks up sunshine and offers a complement to the light gray walls and white trim and accents. I hate dusting. Doesn't everyone? The arrow above points to a place where dust can collect on mission-style railings, right at the crevice of the bottom of the stair railing. That severe crack makes it difficult to clean. On my projects (like the one above), the bottom rail straightens out and then connects to the banister at a right angle, eliminating the dust trap which is always hard to reach!

Living Room - pop up TV cabinet (up), ductless heating system, hand scraped Maple floors, two-sided fireplace, breakfast bar.
Example of a minimalist open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Seattle with beige walls, a two-sided fireplace, a metal fireplace and a concealed tv

Babcock Custom Pools: Transforming Backyards into Oases with Palms If you seek a swimming pool that boasts an interplay of aesthetics, elegance, and proficiency, then Babcock Custom Pools is the solution you have been searching for. Our pool-crafting experts boast an extensive portfolio of pool designs that have consistently surpassed our clients’ anticipations. A hallmark of our designs is the seamless integration of palms – an element we passionately incorporate into our custom creations. At Babcock Custom Pools, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Our process, from the initial consultation to the final construction, is a testament to our pursuit of excellence. Our team of experts consists of seasoned professionals who possess a passion for creating pools that not only serve their practical purpose but are also visually stunning. Palms are a ubiquitous choice for pool landscaping, and for good reason. They add a tropical vibe to your outdoor space, and their presence imbues the area with a lush, serene atmosphere. Furthermore, palms provide the much-needed shade on a hot summer day. At Babcock Custom Pools, we wholeheartedly embrace the use of palms in our designs, and our clients rave about the results. We appreciate the fact that each of our clients is unique, and their pool designs should be a reflection of their individuality. As such, we work closely with our clients to craft customized designs that align with their specific needs and preferences. Whether you envision a sleek, minimalist design or a more traditional aesthetic, our team will collaborate with you to create a pool that perfectly embodies your style. When it comes to constructing pools, we use only the finest materials and the most advanced technologies. Our pools are designed to be durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, ensuring that you can spend more time relishing in the pool and less time maintaining it. In conclusion, if you desire a custom pool design that is both beautiful and functional, Babcock Custom Pools is the answer. Our team of experts will work hand-in-hand with you to create a pool that exceeds your expectations. And, of course, we will not forget to incorporate an ample amount of palms – because we love palms and are confident that you will too. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

This kitchen is a masterclass in luxury and functionality, featuring top-of-the-line appliances and meticulous design details that elevate the space. The built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator seamlessly integrates with the custom cabinetry, maintaining the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic while offering state-of-the-art cooling technology. Beside it, the Wolf range and stainless steel vent hood form a high-performance cooking station, combining professional-grade power with sleek design that suits both everyday meals and gourmet creations. The under-counter beverage refrigerator provides convenient access to drinks, perfect for entertaining or a quick refreshment. A paneled dishwasher blends effortlessly with the cabinetry, its discreet design preserving the kitchen’s cohesive look while offering the latest in quiet, efficient cleaning. A stunning quartz waterfall island stands at the center, showcasing exquisite veining and offering ample prep space as well as a place for gathering. The quartz continues along the countertops, providing a luxurious yet durable work surface that complements the elegance of the appliances and cabinetry. The cabinetry itself, painted in a soft matte white, features brass hardware that adds a touch of warmth and sophistication. Each detail, from the choice of materials to the placement of appliances, reflects a commitment to quality and style, making this kitchen both a beautiful and highly functional space. With dark hardwood floors grounding the design and recessed lighting highlighting each luxurious element, this kitchen is a timeless and inspiring environment crafted for those who value both beauty and performance.

Designed by Mark Sleith of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Falls Church, VA in collaboration with Atlantic Deck & Home Renovation, this new master bathroom design features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish, a Cambria Whitney vanity countertop and fixtures from Kohler and Moen. Said the client, "We were appreciative of Mark and his colleagues for their guidance, patience and helping us to achieve the concept we wanted. Mark completed everything with efficiency and worked very well with Chris our contractor. The finished project is elegant, yet functional. Added Mark, "The clients chose a white cabinet as a neutral palate for their eclectic collection of accessories. The choice of Cambria Whitney for the vanity top added a touch of sparkle that worked well with the the warmth of polished nickel fixtures from Kohler and Moen." Photos courtesy of BTW Images, LLC.

Shoot and Showcase
Mid-sized transitional open concept light wood floor living room photo in DC Metro with gray walls and a wall-mounted tv

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

The Client was not wanting to change out roof so part of the redesign was to compliment the roof color. This was done through the choice of color in the wood stain. New Anderson windows add energy efficiency . Steel door with cut glass featuring a Texas Star.

The Brief In the heart of Plumstead, our clients sought a kitchen that epitomised contemporary design while maintaining practicality. They desired a visually striking space equipped to handle the demands of a busy household. Our Design Choices For this project, we selected the Pronorm Y-line range in Dark Steel lacquer. This range is known for its sleek lines and modern aesthetic, providing a bold statement in any kitchen setting. The dark steel finish is sophisticated yet inviting, perfect for cooking and socialising. Worktops and Appliances The worktops are crafted from Dekton Lunar, known for its durability and stunning appearance, complementing the dark cabinetry beautifully. The Bronze Vincenzo Antique mirror splashback adds a touch of luxury and depth to the space. In terms of appliances, we incorporated a Franke sink and a Quooker tap, known for their quality and design excellence. The Siemens appliances were chosen for their reliability, efficiency, and integration into the modern aesthetic of the kitchen. Special Features The kitchen boasts several special features that elevate it beyond a standard design. The thoughtful placement of appliances ensures ease of use and maximises space. The combination of materials – the coolness of the Dekton Lunar worktops against the warmth of the Bronze Vincenzo splashback – creates a unique sensory experience. Inspired by the Dark Steel Kitchen in Plumstead and interested in transforming your space into a blend of modern design and practicality? Contact us to begin your journey to a dream kitchen.

The perfect choice to modernize any home the glass garage door not only transforms garages; it can also be used as an interior loft partition or a versatile patio door to seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor living spaces. At the press of a button, the garage doors are automatically raised, allowing traffic to flow during gatherings. Closed, they create an attractive wall of windows, adding a panoramic view to any living space. Many window options are available to control the degree of light transmission and privacy. Insulated glass is also available for increased energy efficiency. Full-view Glass Garage Doors are designed to complement a modern design. These contemporary Glass Garage Doors are the perfect enhancement to your home's glass expanses and patios - beautifully fusing indoor and outdoor spaces. These units are low-maintenance and are built to withhold all weather conditions. ETO DOORS CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS -- Tel:(888) Door-ETO or 213.622.2003. Allow ETO Doors to provide you with the highest quality Residential, Commercial and Garage Doors at the guaranteed lowest prices. -- www.etodoors.com.

What do you love most about Clyde's #winecellar?? a) natural stone walls b) backlit art display c) glass encased STACT #wineracks d) LED lighting e) all of the above!

Step into the heart of luxury and functionality with this custom-built kitchen that seamlessly blends classic design elements with modern conveniences. The upper cabinets showcase a timeless V Shaker door style, adorned with pristine white-painted doors that exude elegance and create a bright, airy atmosphere. Complementing this, the base cabinets feature solid maple wood doors with the same V Shaker door style, adding warmth and sophistication to the overall aesthetic. One of the standout features of this kitchen is the pantry side, where a live-edge countertop takes center stage, introducing a touch of rustic charm and natural beauty. The organic edge of the countertop contrasts beautifully with the sleek and uniform appearance of the other surfaces in the kitchen. The majority of the kitchen countertops boast a luxurious white quartz finish, imparting a clean and sophisticated look. This choice not only enhances the kitchen's visual appeal but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance. The appliances in this kitchen are carefully selected to enhance both style and functionality. A panel-ready dishwasher seamlessly integrates with the cabinetry, maintaining a streamlined look. Above the stove, a convenient pot filler is installed, providing an efficient way to fill pots directly on the cooking surface. The apron sink, paired with a stylish gold faucet, becomes a focal point, adding a touch of opulence and personality to the kitchen space. To complete the ensemble, all handles and knobs are elegantly finished in black, creating a striking contrast against the white cabinetry and countertops. This meticulous attention to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the kitchen but also ensures a cohesive and sophisticated design. In this custom-built kitchen, every element has been carefully chosen and thoughtfully integrated to create a space that effortlessly combines style and functionality, making it the perfect hub for culinary delights and social gatherings alike.

Scott and Janet of Elgin have had four design to build renovations with Advance Design over the last decade. We got the chance to sit down and talk with Janet about her experience working with Advance Design on so many different areas of her home. Starting with her kitchen in 2009, Janet proclaimed, “The reason we kept coming back is because our first [renovation] went so extremely well, exceeding all of my expectations.” Since their kitchen renovation with Advance Design ten years ago, Scott and Janet have also worked with Advance to remodel their master bedroom, their power room, a wet bar, and most recently their master bath. Having renovated practically every major room in the house with the team, we asked Janet what made her experience with Advance Design so special. “We went with Advance Design because we trusted them so much more, their experience, and everything that they brought. We were confident they were giving us what we wanted for the money we were spending.” For their most recent renovation, Scott and Janet clearly knew what to expect going into their master bath renovation. They were familiar with Advance’s step by step design process that epitomizes the “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy applied in every project Advance creates. After once again experiencing the careful budgeting analysis, the pointed design meetings, and the clear documentation that leads up the a thoroughly managed installation, Janet’s simple summary of their experience is this; “The word I would use to describe the process is – collaboration!” Working closely with Advance Design kitchen designer Michelle Lecinski, together they were able to develop a new master bath design that not only worked with their investment goal, but also made sense for their lifestyle. “Oh Michelle, my designer! I connected with her immediately. She spent time getting to know us, our lifestyle, even the setting of our house.” The threesome had a great experience designing and producing yet another successful project together. When it came to their new project plans, Scott and Janet were interested in creating a relaxing “spa-like” experience in their master bath. One of the many ideas Michelle introduced during the design process was installing a Kohler Alteo series showerhead for a rain-like shower experience. This designer showerhead, mixed with the warm ambiance of the lighting and pebble accent running throughout the shower make for what Janet calls a “luxury spa essence”. From the oversized glass sliding door to the recessed niche for accessories, each special detail was considered and implemented intentionally so as to create the maximumly optimized use of the compact space. Not only was this transformation one of beauty and luxury, but special attention was given to every way possible to provide additional storage to maximize the functionality of the bath area as a whole. Once design was complete and the bath construction project began in their home, making sure everything happened efficiently and on schedule became new priority number one. “Having a project manager made an enormous difference,” Janet said, “It was so worth it to hire professionals that knew exactly what they were doing. Even after all of these years, I wouldn’t change a thing.” “It was a pleasure working together with Janet and Scott to create this beautiful space that will enhance their lives for many years,” says Michelle. “It is so much fun to get to do this job every day, I love that I can have this sort of impact on their lives by doing something for them [Janet & Scott] that comes so naturally to me!” After reviewing the long-term relationship with clients like Scott and Janet, owner Todd Jurs had this to say, “Clients returning and asking us to transform that next area of their home really warms my heart. It reaffirms that every decision to please clients no matter what is always the right choice, and that our honesty and integrity along with the immense collective talent of this team is recognized and appreciated by those who continue to return to us year after year.” He continued to say, “I always say how blessed we truly are to be able to do what we do, and experiences like this one put a smile on my face every time.”

When Kaitlyn O. was looking to make the switch to solar energy in Sterling, Colorado, she knew that she needed to find a reliable and trustworthy company to help her make the transition. After extensive research, she found Green Home Systems and knew that this was the company for her. Green Home Systems is a leading provider of solar solutions throughout the United States. They specialize in providing solar energy systems at the most economical prices and offer unparalleled customer service. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, they are dedicated to helping customers like Kaitlyn get the most out of their solar energy systems. Kaitlyn was drawn to Green Home Systems because of their competitive pricing and free consultation services. She was able to get an accurate quote for a 7.56 kW system within minutes and decided that this was the right choice for her needs. She also appreciated their generous warranty which gave her peace of mind knowing that her system would be covered if anything went wrong down the line. The installation process was smooth and efficient and Kaitlyn had her new solar energy system up and running within less than a month thanks to the hard work of the Green Home Systems team. She was amazed at how quickly they could get her system up and running and even more impressed with how much money she started saving on her energy bills almost immediately after installation! Kaitlyn was thrilled with her decision to go with Green Home Systems for her Sterling, Colorado solar energy system installation. Not only did she save money on her energy bills but she also felt good about doing something positive for the environment by making the switch to renewable energy sources like solar power. If you’re looking for reliable, trustworthy and affordable solar solutions in Sterling, CO then look no further than Green Home Systems! They are committed to providing their customers with exceptional customer service while offering competitive prices on all of their services. Don’t wait any longer – make the switch to renewable energy today with help from Green Home Systems!

Archadeck of NE Dallas-Southlake metamorphosed this home’s exterior into a truly superior outdoor living space. That’s why we say, “It’s never just a pergola.” We constructed a beautiful pergola for this home, but we also upgraded exterior finishes, such as removing the original cedar siding and replacing it with 48” x 96” SmartSide panels. This, of course, modernized the exterior of the home, but is also a more energy efficient and low maintenance siding choice, when compared to traditional cedar!

Designed by Jens Bunte of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Chesapeake, VA this transitional style kitchen design features Green Forest Cabinetry in Park Place shaker door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are Q by MSI engineered quartz in the color Calacatta Laza. The tile backsplash features the Glazzio Crystile Series in the color Morning Mist. According to the client, “On her initial visit, Jens asked many insightful questions and offered several helpful recommendations that appealed to us immediately. These included installing ceiling height cabinets by removing the soffit, adding a full depth cabinet above the refrigerator, considering a larger island with more countertop, storage and seating space, incorporating efficient cabinet accessories in our base cabinets and transforming a bi-fold door pantry into a coffee bar. From project kickoff to concept design, planning, communication, logistics, installation and follow up, Jens was attentive, enthusiastic, engaged and meticulous. It was truly a pleasure to work with her!” Added Jens, “The Barbers knew what they wanted but also allowed me to offer ideas and solutions throughout the entire project so the end result was a definite combination of all of our efforts coming together cohesively.” Photos courtesy of Frank Biganski, AgentsChoice360.

Hunter Douglas Custom Angled Honeycomb shades - Window Quilt Muskoka
Home theater - traditional home theater idea in Toronto