This extensive renovation designed by Eric Rawlings, AIA, LEED AP and built by Arlene Dean, completely transforms the look of the original structure. The main source of inspiration for the new design came from Greene & Greene’s Gamble House, which is considered by many as the pinnacle of the original turn of the century Craftsman Style Homes. Distinctive features from that style include the use of exposed timber framing, low pitched roof forms with large overhangs, gangs of windows, and extensive built-in furniture. We removed the front porch brick addition on the right side of the original house and reused about 90% of the original floor system along with more than 50% of the original walls. The original garage was converted into a pool house and the new garage was built in front of it. The upper level terrace on the front of the house serves a dual purpose as a carport while also creating a signature display of complex exposed timber frame construction synonymous with the Craftsman Style of Greene & Greene. The roof structure is made of 4x8 rafters about 5ft apart and 2x6 tongue and groove decking which creates an exposed wood ceiling finish as well as being the structural roof deck. Photos by Eric Rawlings, AIA, LEEP AP.

This Ensuite bathroom got a total make over. Moving a bedroom closet allowed a new and more efficient location for ensuite door which opened up the wall space for a double vanity. The walled in shower with frosted glass was replaced with glass panels and floor to ceiling tiles, in floor heat was added and warm wood- like tiles in soft brown/grey tones were used to finish off the floor. Ship lap panelling was added on the two feature walls to make the room feel wider and add character and style. Antique buffet was converted into a double sink vanity and chalk painted by the client to match the ship lap style. Two custom mirrors were stained to tie in with the floor tiles and rubbed bronze light sconces and vanity hardware. We re-hung the bathroom door on a barn door assembly to allow more floor space in the bathroom and added to the character and style. Built in wardrobe cabinets replace the two smaller bedroom closets.

When this homeowner decided to move back to Seattle from Las Vegas to support her daughter’s culinary studies, she chose to make a beloved 1940s bungalow her permanent home. To fit her lifestyle, the house needed a full transformation that made the most of its modest footprint while preserving its charm. The remodel reimagined every inch of the space. The front porch was converted into a comfortable primary suite, providing a private retreat within the home. In the kitchen, smart storage solutions and a thoughtful layout created an efficient, welcoming space perfect for a family passionate about food. A particularly creative update was the redesign of a small studio-style bedroom at the back of the house. Once accessible only by ladder, the space now features a stylish spiral staircase, offering both safety and architectural interest while maintaining its cozy character. The result is a whole-home remodel that feels functional, personal, and true to its historic roots.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

The family's once-loved home had become a source of frustration. Their kitchen, a space meant for gathering and creating, felt cramped and outdated. Limited storage and poor organization made meal prep a tedious task, and entertaining guests a logistical nightmare. The laundry room, often overlooked, was equally problematic. Its cramped layout and lack of storage made laundry day a chore, and the noise of the washing machine echoed through the living room. To compound the issue, the absence of dedicated office spaces made working from home a constant struggle. One makeshift office was squeezed into the dining room, while another was relegated to the basement. The family was hesitant to embark on a major renovation, fearing the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a project. Finding a reliable contractor, ensuring timely completion, and worrying about potential shoddy workmanship were all valid concerns. We understood their anxieties and were committed to providing a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team crafted a design that addressed each of their concerns, transforming their home into a functional and stylish space. We reimagined the laundry room, creating a custom storage solution and incorporating a stackable washer and dryer. The open hallway to the living room was enclosed, creating a spacious closet with ample storage. The laundry room now seamlessly connected to the kitchen, simplifying the grocery unloading process. A former juliette balcony was converted into a dedicated office space, providing a peaceful and productive work-from-home environment. The dated and cluttered ensuite bathroom received a luxurious makeover. A clever pull-out storage system in the shower wall and a spacious niche provided much-needed organization. While every renovation project has its challenges, this one was remarkably smooth. The only significant hurdle was some additional structural work required in the basement to support the new office space. Our experienced team handled this efficiently, minimizing any disruption. The final result is a home that truly reflects the family's personality and lifestyle. The laundry room, now a cheerful and organized space with soft green cabinets, patterned floor tiles, and gold accents, showcases our attention to detail. The kitchen is a stunning centerpiece, featuring a striking combination of blue and white cabinets, dark hardwood floors, and a sleek white backsplash. The adjacent beverage bar, with its glass-fronted upper cabinets, provides an elegant space for entertaining. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, with large-format marble tiles, a black vanity, and chrome fixtures creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. The renovation has had a profound impact on the family's daily life. Ample storage throughout the house has banished clutter, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. The seamless flow from the laundry room to the kitchen has streamlined the grocery unloading process, and the dedicated office spaces have transformed the work-from-home experience. Beyond the physical transformation, it was the shared moments and laughter that made this project truly special. The family's enthusiasm and good humor were contagious. One of the clients, with his big personality, even starred in a walk-through video of the finished project, showcasing his infectious joy. From choosing tiles to navigating unexpected challenges, the entire process was filled with warmth and collaboration. Even their four-year-old son, initially shy, warmed up to our site leader, Gus, nicknaming him "Gus the Bus," a moniker that endeared him to the entire team.

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano. Project Goals + Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather + Cooking functionality for their family farm + Add a workstation sink for easy food prep + Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection + Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style Challenges & Issues + Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist + Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop + Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home + The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions Country Kitchen Features: Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining. Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals. Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty. Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens. Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together. New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests. Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks. Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently. Country House Living Room: New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC. Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling. Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room. New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

The family's once-loved home had become a source of frustration. Their kitchen, a space meant for gathering and creating, felt cramped and outdated. Limited storage and poor organization made meal prep a tedious task, and entertaining guests a logistical nightmare. The laundry room, often overlooked, was equally problematic. Its cramped layout and lack of storage made laundry day a chore, and the noise of the washing machine echoed through the living room. To compound the issue, the absence of dedicated office spaces made working from home a constant struggle. One makeshift office was squeezed into the dining room, while another was relegated to the basement. The family was hesitant to embark on a major renovation, fearing the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a project. Finding a reliable contractor, ensuring timely completion, and worrying about potential shoddy workmanship were all valid concerns. We understood their anxieties and were committed to providing a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team crafted a design that addressed each of their concerns, transforming their home into a functional and stylish space. We reimagined the laundry room, creating a custom storage solution and incorporating a stackable washer and dryer. The open hallway to the living room was enclosed, creating a spacious closet with ample storage. The laundry room now seamlessly connected to the kitchen, simplifying the grocery unloading process. A former juliette balcony was converted into a dedicated office space, providing a peaceful and productive work-from-home environment. The dated and cluttered ensuite bathroom received a luxurious makeover. A clever pull-out storage system in the shower wall and a spacious niche provided much-needed organization. While every renovation project has its challenges, this one was remarkably smooth. The only significant hurdle was some additional structural work required in the basement to support the new office space. Our experienced team handled this efficiently, minimizing any disruption. The final result is a home that truly reflects the family's personality and lifestyle. The laundry room, now a cheerful and organized space with soft green cabinets, patterned floor tiles, and gold accents, showcases our attention to detail. The kitchen is a stunning centerpiece, featuring a striking combination of blue and white cabinets, dark hardwood floors, and a sleek white backsplash. The adjacent beverage bar, with its glass-fronted upper cabinets, provides an elegant space for entertaining. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, with large-format marble tiles, a black vanity, and chrome fixtures creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. The renovation has had a profound impact on the family's daily life. Ample storage throughout the house has banished clutter, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. The seamless flow from the laundry room to the kitchen has streamlined the grocery unloading process, and the dedicated office spaces have transformed the work-from-home experience. Beyond the physical transformation, it was the shared moments and laughter that made this project truly special. The family's enthusiasm and good humor were contagious. One of the clients, with his big personality, even starred in a walk-through video of the finished project, showcasing his infectious joy. From choosing tiles to navigating unexpected challenges, the entire process was filled with warmth and collaboration. Even their four-year-old son, initially shy, warmed up to our site leader, Gus, nicknaming him "Gus the Bus," a moniker that endeared him to the entire team.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

Before we redesigned the basement of this charming but compact 1950's North Vancouver home, this space was an unfinished utility room that housed nothing more than an outdated furnace and hot water tank. Since space was at a premium we recommended replacing the furnace with a high efficiency model and converting the hot water tank to an on-demand system, both of which could be housed in the adjacent crawl space. That left room for a generous laundry room conveniently located at the back entrance of the house where family members returning from a mountain bike ride can undress, drop muddy clothes into the washing machine and proceed to shower in the bathroom just across the hall. Interior Design by Lori Steeves of Simply Home Decorating. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography.

THE SETUP Originally an empty front living room, this space offered a blank canvas for transformation. Alicia’s client — a financial wealth management professional facing a career shift towards more home-based work — was excited to make it her new office. Capitalizing on the space’s abundant natural light, perfect for on-camera meetings, Alicia helped convert the area into a primary workspace. Design Objectives: - Create a functional and professional home office Cultivate an aesthetic that is both comfortable and feminine - Optimize the office for the space’s ideal lighting and provide an appealing background for virtual meetings Design Challenges: - Transforming a large, undefined space into a structured, functional office - Selecting a color palette that enhances focus and professionalism, balanced with a feminine touch - Strategically placing the desk to maximize functionality and aesthetics within the large area Incorporating solutions for effective real-time stock trade tracking and analog task management THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Workspace Configuration: Centered the desk to utilize indirect light, ideal for video calls, while providing a commanding view of the office, the outdoors and the entrance. A floor-installed power outlet under the desk ensures a clean, cord-free setup. Aesthetic and Palette: Anchored by a striking wallpaper chosen by the client, Alicia developed a soft, neutral color scheme that complements the room’s black window frames and maintains a feminine touch. Digital Integration: Included a screen dedicated to monitoring daily stock trends, positioned for easy viewing. The energy efficient monitor doubles as artwork when not in use, seamlessly blending functionality with style. Organizational Features: Implemented dual large bulletin boards for task and project tracking, integrating them aesthetically with custom cabinetry and interesting, yet subdued, fabric backing. Our client is thrilled with her new home office, which not only meets her professional needs but also adds comfort and style to her daily work routine. The space is highly functional for both solo work and client appointments, providing a perfect blend of business professionalism and personal comfort. It embodies the essence of a #girlboss, combining a professional atmosphere with feminine elegance, making every workday enjoyable and productive.

This full basement remodel included creating an office space, a communal space with a kitchenette, and a receiving area that could be convertable into an extra bedroom with a seemlessly integrated closet.

Back in 2020, before working from home became the norm, we embarked on a project to convert an unused formal dining room into a stunning home office. Little did we know how crucial this space would become in the following years. Our client was ahead of the curve, preparing for remote work with a beautifully designed home office. The focal point of this home office is the striking Navy cabinetry – our client’s favorite color – that not only adds a touch of personality to the space but also provides essential storage for books, files, and even pencil drawers. The room also features dedicated space for a copier, making it an efficient workspace for all needs. The centerpiece of the office is a natural maple desk that not only provides a spacious work area but also offers ample storage. Side shelves were cleverly incorporated for storing coloring supplies and books, making it a versatile space for both work and play. It’s perfect for the kids to join in after school and work alongside their parent. To ensure a harmonious look, we matched the crown molding on the cabinets with the existing features in the room. The grey-stained maple floor, extending from the nearby updated kitchen into the office, creates a unified and sophisticated look. This project exemplifies our commitment to creating functional and beautiful spaces that cater to the ever-changing needs of our clients. As the home office continues to be a vital part of our lives, having a space that is not only convenient but also aesthetically pleasing is more important than ever. At Crystal Kitchen, we are dedicated to turning your vision into reality, whether it’s a home office, kitchen, or any other area of your home. If you’re looking to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle, get in touch with us today, and let’s make it happen. Your home should be a reflection of you, and we’re here to bring your dreams to life!

S+H Construction and Architect Will Ruhl collaborated to transform and modernize this 3,500-square-foot contemporary home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Doug Hanna of S+H Construction recognized that this building, originally an abandoned municipal garage that was later converted to residential space in the late 1950’s by renowned architect Paul Rudolph, was not a typical project. With evidence of water damage and poor insulation, the goal was to make the house energy-efficient and weather tight home with the help of Zero Energy Design. S+H installed translucent polycarbonate window panels to bring light and warmth to the back room of the house, which was formerly unlivable for several months of the year due to the lack of installation. The improved room now offers heating, cooling, and high density foam insulation, and is now home to the new owners’ extensive book collection. The S+H team also installed triple-glazed, super insulated, sliding glass doors—which required modification of the slab deck and steel trusses—to offer outdoor access for the new residents. Photo Credit: Tony Luong Architects: Ruhl Walker Architects Energy Consultants: Zero Energy Design

This whole-house remodel converted a midcentury 3-bed 1-bath into a more modern 2-bed 2-bath with an open floor plan. The cabinets are Frameless Black Walnut with a natural satin finish, and the floors are oak hardwoods with walnut pegs. The countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms is Quantra Quartz in Night Shade (3cm). New insulation throughout and windows by Milgard make the home more efficient. HVAC is a Mitsubishi heat pump & air handler.

Conversion of a small ranch house to a larger simplified-Craftsman style house. We retained most of the original house, rearranging a few walls to improve an awkward layout in the original house, and added a partial second story and converted a covered patio space to a dining and family room. The clients had read Sarah Susanka’s Not So Big books and wanted to use these principles in making a beautiful and ecological house that uses space efficiently. Photography by Phil Bond. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/ranch-to-craftsman/

This summer cottage was winterized in the 1960’s as a year round home. The new owners decided to remodel the master suite to achieve more efficient energy saving and storage needs. After a design by another builder failed to inspire them, Excelsior Design Group was commissioned to review the project. Client Objectives The homeowners were looking to convert an old master bathroom into a walk in closet, remodel a guest bedroom into a master bathroom and remodel a hall bathroom into a laundry room. Project Details It was immediately determined that the master bath and closet layout previously designed needed to be flipped. The old master bathroom became the walk in closet for Susan. The new walk-in closet, designed to accommodate hundreds of shoes, was designed by Janis Gaut of Closet Factory and incorporates the same marble tops as the vanities and the fireplace.

Title: Scottsdale Golf Course Kitchen: Modern Elegance Meets Timeless Function Description: This aesthetic equity refresh transformed a dated kitchen into a sophisticated, highly functional space for a Scottsdale couple who love to entertain and enjoy their stunning 9th-hole golf course views. Working within the home's existing architectural character—including soaring ceilings with natural skylights and original flooring—we created a kitchen that honors the clients' cherished antiques while delivering modern convenience for a passionate home cook. Key Design Solutions: Custom beverage station with wine and liquor storage for seamless entertaining Workstation sink with integrated waste bin for efficient meal prep Interior cabinet organizers maximizing storage throughout Height-enhanced cabinetry adding visual impact and storage capacity Patio door converted to an expansive window with custom-fabricated coffee table, creating an intimate morning nook overlooking the fairway Expert retrofitting of angled cabinet runs for a cohesive, built-in appearance Design Challenges: The project required careful coordination of updated finishes with existing tile flooring and the clients' antique furnishings, ensuring the refresh felt intentional rather than piecemeal. Complex angles demanded custom cabinet solutions to maintain clean lines and maximize function. The result is a kitchen that gives these homeowners—now in their 70s—decades more enjoyment from their home, blending style, accessibility, and the functional details that make daily life effortless.

This neglected farmhouse has found a new family. Together we will undo the exterior muddling of the past, restore the interior spaces and create an amazing home for future generations to enjoy. As part of the process, we are improving the function, durability, energy efficiency and appearance of this home. We are converting a screen porch into a much-needed mudroom, air sealing the walls, increasing the insulation throughout, using resilient materials, and restoring the trim with classic details. Thanks to the amazing clients and excellent building crew, this restoration has been a truly rewarding process; transforming a village eyesore into a beautiful home.