Converted an old massive brick wood-burning fireplace to natural gas, remote controlled, stainless steel burner pan, copper fire glass, lined with stainless steel and ceramic fiber. Puts a lot of heat, but I am building a heat exchanger to increase efficiency.

We updated this 1907 two-story family home for re-sale. We added modern design elements and amenities while retaining the home’s original charm in the layout and key details. The aim was to optimize the value of the property for a prospective buyer, within a reasonable budget. New French doors from kitchen and a rear bedroom open out to a new bi-level deck that allows good sight lines, functional outdoor living space, and easy access to a garden full of mature fruit trees. French doors from an upstairs bedroom open out to a private high deck overlooking the garden. The garage has been converted to a family room that opens to the garden. The bathrooms and kitchen were remodeled the kitchen with simple, light, classic materials and contemporary lighting fixtures. New windows and skylights flood the spaces with light. Stained wood windows and doors at the kitchen pick up on the original stained wood of the other living spaces. New redwood picture molding was created for the living room where traces in the plaster suggested that picture molding has originally been. A sweet corner window seat at the living room was restored. At a downstairs bedroom we created a new plate rail and other redwood trim matching the original at the dining room. The original dining room hutch and woodwork were restored and a new mantel built for the fireplace. We built deep shelves into space carved out of the attic next to upstairs bedrooms and added other built-ins for character and usefulness. Storage was created in nooks throughout the house. A small room off the kitchen was set up for efficient laundry and pantry space. We provided the future owner of the house with plans showing design possibilities for expanding the house and creating a master suite with upstairs roof dormers and a small addition downstairs. The proposed design would optimize the house for current use while respecting the original integrity of the house. Photography: John Hayes, Open Homes Photography https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/classic-craftsman-update/

We updated this 1907 two-story family home for re-sale. We added modern design elements and amenities while retaining the home’s original charm in the layout and key details. The aim was to optimize the value of the property for a prospective buyer, within a reasonable budget. New French doors from kitchen and a rear bedroom open out to a new bi-level deck that allows good sight lines, functional outdoor living space, and easy access to a garden full of mature fruit trees. French doors from an upstairs bedroom open out to a private high deck overlooking the garden. The garage has been converted to a family room that opens to the garden. The bathrooms and kitchen were remodeled the kitchen with simple, light, classic materials and contemporary lighting fixtures. New windows and skylights flood the spaces with light. Stained wood windows and doors at the kitchen pick up on the original stained wood of the other living spaces. New redwood picture molding was created for the living room where traces in the plaster suggested that picture molding has originally been. A sweet corner window seat at the living room was restored. At a downstairs bedroom we created a new plate rail and other redwood trim matching the original at the dining room. The original dining room hutch and woodwork were restored and a new mantel built for the fireplace. We built deep shelves into space carved out of the attic next to upstairs bedrooms and added other built-ins for character and usefulness. Storage was created in nooks throughout the house. A small room off the kitchen was set up for efficient laundry and pantry space. We provided the future owner of the house with plans showing design possibilities for expanding the house and creating a master suite with upstairs roof dormers and a small addition downstairs. The proposed design would optimize the house for current use while respecting the original integrity of the house. Photography: John Hayes, Open Homes Photography https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/classic-craftsman-update/

This condo, in a converted warehouse in midtown Asheville, had good “bones,” but the kitchen and bathrooms needed refreshing. Practical lower-cabinet drawers, modern simple lines, a new breakfast bar, and efficient cabinet layout gave the kitchen new life and usefulness. We replaced the vanity and shower in the master bathj, and the powder/laundry room got a stylish, new vanity. The owner was happy that he didn’t need to be present to be sure the project was done well and done right.

We updated this 1907 two-story family home for re-sale. We added modern design elements and amenities while retaining the home’s original charm in the layout and key details. The aim was to optimize the value of the property for a prospective buyer, within a reasonable budget. New French doors from kitchen and a rear bedroom open out to a new bi-level deck that allows good sight lines, functional outdoor living space, and easy access to a garden full of mature fruit trees. French doors from an upstairs bedroom open out to a private high deck overlooking the garden. The garage has been converted to a family room that opens to the garden. The bathrooms and kitchen were remodeled the kitchen with simple, light, classic materials and contemporary lighting fixtures. New windows and skylights flood the spaces with light. Stained wood windows and doors at the kitchen pick up on the original stained wood of the other living spaces. New redwood picture molding was created for the living room where traces in the plaster suggested that picture molding has originally been. A sweet corner window seat at the living room was restored. At a downstairs bedroom we created a new plate rail and other redwood trim matching the original at the dining room. The original dining room hutch and woodwork were restored and a new mantel built for the fireplace. We built deep shelves into space carved out of the attic next to upstairs bedrooms and added other built-ins for character and usefulness. Storage was created in nooks throughout the house. A small room off the kitchen was set up for efficient laundry and pantry space. We provided the future owner of the house with plans showing design possibilities for expanding the house and creating a master suite with upstairs roof dormers and a small addition downstairs. The proposed design would optimize the house for current use while respecting the original integrity of the house. Photography: John Hayes, Open Homes Photography https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/classic-craftsman-update/

This project combines two existing studio apartments into a compact 800 sqft. live/work space for a young professional couple in the heart of Chelsea, New York. The design required some creative space planning to meet the Owner’s requested program for an open plan solution with a private master bedroom suite and separate study that also allowed for entertaining small parties, including the ability to provide a sleeping space for guests. The solution was to identify areas of overlap within the program that could be addressed with dual-function custom millwork pieces. A bar-stool counter at the open kitchen folds out to become a bench and dining table for formal entertaining. A custom desk folds down with a murphy bed to convert a private study into a guest bedroom area. A series of pocket door connecting the spaces provide both privacy to the master bedroom area when closed, and the option for a completely open layout when opened. A carefully selected material palette brings a warm, tranquil feel to the space. Reclaimed teak floors run seamlessly through the main spaces to accentuate the open layout. Warm gray lacquered millwork, Centaurus granite slabs, and custom oxidized stainless steel details, give an elegant counterpoint to the natural teak floors. The master bedroom suite and study feature custom Afromosia millwork. The bathrooms are finished with cool toned ceramic tile, custom Afromosia vanities, and minimalist chrome fixtures. Custom LED lighting provides dynamic, energy efficient illumination throughout. Photography: Mikiko Kikuyama

Interior Rehab/Renovation and Rear addition for a Multi-unit residential building in the historic Little Italy neighborhood. We converted this vintage 2 flat into a lovely private residence for the owners duplexing the 1st & 2nd floors. We also designed a separate "In-Law" unit at the gardel level for rentals. We also added a "living" Green roof which increased thermal efficiency and reduced energy costs for the owners. Probably the 1st and only Green roof in the Little Italy neighborhood for a private residence. Overall a very positive and sustainable renovation adding tons of Value for the client and great for the environment.

Revitalizing a 1950’s Ranch The owners of this property purchased the dilapidated 1950’s ranch with the intention of demolishing it and building a modern residence in its place. A yearlong demolition delay caused the owners to rethink their plan, and instead, looked to Slocum Hall to design an addition and reconfigure the existing home to meet their programmatic needs. The prominent two-car front-facing garage was converted into Living Space with 12’ ceilings. An addition towards the rear of the property housed a new Garage, Mudroom and expanded Kitchen spaces. All the living spaces were reconfigured to function more efficiently, creating four bedroom suites and an expansive basement for recreation and informal entertaining.

The PLJW 117 is a thin, sleek under cabinet range hood. This is a fantastic option if you want to make a subtle statement in your kitchen, while keeping the air clean too! This under cabinet hood can also be installed as a wall hood. Not to mention that it is convertible! Simply purchase a recirculating kit with your order and install it on the top of the hood. The user-friendly control panel in the front of the hood allows you to adjust the blower to four different speeds. You can also control the lights and the range hood. The panel looks sleek too, featuring a modern LCD touch display! This under cabinet hood includes stainless steel baffle filters, which trap grease and dirt from your kitchen air as it travels through your ductwork and outside your home. The baffle design is incredibly efficient and the filters are safe to put into your dishwasher. For more information on the PLJW 117, click on the link below: https://www.prolinerangehoods.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=pljw%20117

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

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.

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.

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/

home office/convertible 3rd bedroom - by inserting one wall with door. anticipated floor finish and closet. high efficiency fan. Photos by Michael Stavaridis

The existing turn of the century farmhouse, converted to the garage with studio above, influenced the lines of a new 1,800 SF single family home. The house orientation provides privacy within the small town street grid. Energy efficient features include the heated polished concrete floors and small building footprint.

Interior Rehab/Renovation and Rear addition for a Multi-unit residential building in the historic Little Italy neighborhood. We converted this vintage 2 flat into a lovely private residence for the owners duplexing the 1st & 2nd floors. We also designed a separate "In-Law" unit at the gardel level for rentals. We also added a "living" Green roof which increased thermal efficiency and reduced energy costs for the owners. Probably the 1st and only Green roof in the Little Italy neighborhood for a private residence. Overall a very positive and sustainable renovation adding tons of Value for the client and great for the environment.

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 condo, in a converted warehouse in midtown Asheville, had good “bones,” but the kitchen and bathrooms needed refreshing. Practical lower-cabinet drawers, modern simple lines, a new breakfast bar, and efficient cabinet layout gave the kitchen new life and usefulness. We replaced the vanity and shower in the master bathj, and the powder/laundry room got a stylish, new vanity. The owner was happy that he didn’t need to be present to be sure the project was done well and done right.

After remodeling of the exterior elevations and patio over garage, Existing garage was converted into an efficiency apartment
Example of a mid-sized classic exterior home design in Nashville