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.

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.

Example of a minimalist living room design in Orange County with a tile fireplace and a standard fireplace

Converting the attic into a cozy owner's retreat allowed room for this efficient second floor laundry room that opens onto a sunny deck above the front entry.

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/

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!

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.

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY FINALIST AWARD WINNER Project Scope-- The owners of this 1990’s colonial home were seeking to convert the existing space-constricted builder-grade kitchen into a generously-apportioned Tuscan-style country kitchen with lots of natural light, high-end appointments and a warmly textured interior design concept. Among other features they sought a mid-room island that would house critical appliances, complete the work triangle and provide dining counter space for three. They also wanted to include a professional-grade gas range. Challenges-- Situated between dining room and family room, the existing kitchen was small and poorly planned. The sink faced a blank wall and the appliances were inadequate for the owner’s gourmet cooking ambitions. To create the desired footprint, the contractor, Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, created a plan that called for consolidating square footage in several rooms adjacent to the kitchen. This entailed removing two load bearing walls– one between the kitchen and dining room, a second separating the kitchen and family room– and shifting loads to newly installed structural supports carefully concealed within the resultant “open” floor plan. To accommodate new appliances (and work efficiencies) called for by this radically altered space plan, the design located the new professional gas range and other key features in the footprint formerly occupied by the breakfast room, a change that takes advantage of opportunities for a higher cathedral ceiling, better natural lighting and greater space. Solutions-- With this space plan resolved, the design team could now eliminate a picture window on the west elevation, designing a new elevation to accommodate a stucco cooktop flanked by a pair of custom Palladium windows. A side elevation slider was replaced with a French door. Infrastructure considerations included introducing gas lines needed for the 48” Viking cooktop range and re-routing plumbing. The 5’ x 9’ granite-surfaced custom designed island includes the primary kitchen sink, a dishwasher, microwave and dining overhang that provided seating for up to four. On another wall, the design called for installing ceiling flush “beaded” display pantries with open bookcases, and routed-in plumbing for a water fountain, a faucet and an ice-making machine. Glazed maple and cherry cabinetry increased available storage by over 50%. A recessed space was also created for a built-in vertical wine rack. Style-appropriate terra cotta tiling with mosaic bordering detailing extends into the home’s foyer. Other finishing work elements include crown molding with rounded turn posts and corbels.

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 kitchen began as an unfunctional, cluttered space with limited storage. The homeowners envisioned transforming it into their ideal kitchen—bright, open, and highly functional. The existing bench, once an impractical painted wood feature with decorative columns, was reimagined into a beautifully integrated pantry solution. The base now provides generous bulk storage, while the former columns have been converted into vertical cabinetry with adjustable shelving, maximizing both function and efficiency.

Custom designed new entry. 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.

This comprehensive remodel transformed nearly every surface of the home into a functional and modern retreat. The updates include stunning new hardwood flooring throughout, custom cabinetry in both the kitchen and bath, and sleek quartz countertops that blend style with durability. A new shower replaced the existing bathtub, paired with a custom bath vanity and all-new plumbing fixtures for a spa-like experience. The living room features a new fireplace surround, while updated trim work adds a polished, cohesive finish to every room. To maximize functionality, a previously underutilized closet was converted into a stylish and efficient home office. This remodel showcases thoughtful design and craftsmanship, creating a space that feels both fresh and timeless.

This kitchen began as an unfunctional, cluttered space with limited storage. The homeowners envisioned transforming it into their ideal kitchen: bright, open, and highly functional. We achieved this by upgrading the lighting with LED recessed cans, adding under-cabinet lighting, and incorporating thoughtful pops of color throughout. The maple cabinetry was finished in a rich mocha stain, enhancing the natural warmth of the wood, while cream and beige checker tile grounds the space with a timeless touch. To further open up the layout, we arched the opening into the dining area, creating a more seamless flow. Although the footprint remained the same, the kitchen now feels significantly more spacious and inviting. The existing bench, once an impractical painted wood feature with decorative columns, was reimagined into a beautifully integrated pantry solution. The base now provides generous bulk storage, while the former columns have been converted into vertical cabinetry with adjustable shelving, maximizing both function and efficiency.

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

In the basement, a standard closet that once exposed the water heater and venting was converted into a smart, efficient laundry space. A stacking washer and dryer freed up space for navy cabinetry, full-height storage, and a new closet that neatly conceals the water heater. A concrete-look countertop, stainless hanging rod, and oil-rubbed bronze hardware echo finishes used elsewhere in the home, tying the spaces together.

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

Are you ready to build your dream home? Cavalier Homes Inc. will help you build your dream home from start to finish. We will facilitate the purchase of your property, design your home, and build it to your specifications. Everybody dreams of living in a cozy house that has everything they need. Nothing beats the elegance of a custom-built new home. The process might take longer than buying a home off the market, but it’s worth the wait in the end. There are probably a dozen things about your current home that you would like to alter, but the size or design may make those changes impossible. Therefore, the best way to make your dream a reality is to find a trustworthy general contractor. Although purchasing an existing home may bring you closer to your ideal home, you may still need to make some adjustments and compromises. If you have a specific requirement, new home construction is the better choice. Having a home specifically designed for you is the only option if you want a place that you can truly call home. As one of the skilled custom home builders, we collaborate with you to make sure that your house is made to suit all of your requirements. At each stage of the home-building process, we place a strong emphasis on quality, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and complete customization. Let’s take a closer look at why Cavalier Homes; a Long Island custom home builder is the best of the best. Personalized, one-of-a-kind custom home construction One of the most compelling advantages is that each of our designs is completely personalized and one-of-a-kind. One of the pillars of our philosophy is that we prefer to forego cookie-cutter, mass-produced design in favor of distinctive homes that we can be proud of. We work as consultants with our homeowners, taking into account their needs, concerns, and desires to ensure that the finished product is a home they will be proud to call their own for a lifetime. Work with seasoned architects We have a team of highly qualified and experienced architects to convert your ideas into reality with every single home we create. Our architects are sensitive to the needs of our clients and can quickly incorporate your vision into the homes that we design for you. Gorgeous Modern Design You will be glad to see that Cavalier Homes emphasizes gorgeous, high-quality contemporary design in every square inch of your newly built home. We adhere to the most recent modern design trends while also emphasizing components like natural light, open areas, and people-centered decor to make sure that every new home we construct looks exciting and new throughout its lifespan. If you’re looking for some ideas for your new home in Long Island, be sure to look through some of our most recent designs to get an idea of how it might turn out. Planning, management, scheduling, and quality assurance Planning every detail of your new home with you is something we would love to do. We plan the entire construction within your budget and look for ways to secure a new home for you that fits your vision while providing the best value for money. We will collaborate with you and our expert designers to create a schedule that is both realistic and convenient. From the initial installation of the floorboards to the final installation of the modular additions, we will oversee every stage of the construction process. Most importantly, we promise strict quality control at every stage of the procedure, ensuring that your home is truly perfect.

This full-home remodel in the Broadmoor neighborhood of Seattle aimed towards functionality and a cohesive living environment tailored to modern needs. Central to the project was redesigning the kitchen with a new layout, updated finishes, fixtures, and appliances. We reconfigured the hallway to expand the primary bedroom and revamped the bathroom with a new layout and all-new finishes. An underutilized courtyard was converted to interior living space, seamlessly integrating it into the home’s footprint. The floors and windows were replaced throughout, along with other energy efficient exterior upgrades.

Mike and Michelle of Lake Barrington knew they needed extra space. Their home was becoming too crowded for their family with blossoming teenagers, so a basement renovation offered the perfect solution for more space for the kids and more room to entertain for the adults. “Our project consisted of expanding our laundry room, putting in a first floor wet bar so we had adult space upstairs, while also renovating our basement for a family-friendly and teen-functional area as well,” Michelle says. They found Advance Design Studio through a neighbor who gave a glowing recommendation, giving Michelle and Mike the confidence they needed to move forward with a major home renovation. They felt like they knew Advance Design before they even worked together. When they met with the owner Todd Jurs and designer Nicole Ryan, Mike and Michelle knew they were getting a trustworthy, dependable team that could create the project they had been dreaming about for 7 years. Having virtually no natural light to work with, one of the biggest design challenges was creating a basement that did not feel dark and depressing. The Advance team got to work creating architectural archways and custom detailed dry-stack stone columns artfully designed into the space, adding a dramatic element that made the space feel less like a basement or more like a relaxing family room. Color 3D renderings were created to portray what the space would look like so Mike and Michelle could visualize the space in advance. Detailed trim and crown moldings grace the built in buffet and wet bar making for an amazingly functional space that lacks nothing in style and visual interest. Cherry wood cabinetry by Dura Supreme is featured in the space with a “Cocoa Brown” finish and includes beautiful mirrored glass doors embellished with unique elliptical mullion details. A built-in microwave, dishwasher and mini fridge add practicality to the ample entertainment mecca. An under mounted sink finishes the space joined with a intricate mosaic tile backsplash and “Ventisca Polished” quartz countertops. The basement is absolutely perfect for hosting friends and family with expertly designed key areas such as a game space for the kids, a movie area for the family, an ample workout room with luxurious full bath, and even built in wine storage. The family absolutely loves the new basement living space, and has already enjoyed numerous family movie nights and sleep-overs with friends. While custom cabinets made by Dura Supreme were used to create unique spaces that lived up to Mike and Michelle’s expectations., heated flooring under the 16”x16” “Mongolian Spring” tile was installed giving all tiled areas of the basement a much cozier feel, eliminating that cold hard surface most of us hate in our basements! The new basement must-have requirement list included a new bath space, which was incorporated adjacent to the work out room. The sleek shower door and cabinets in the new bathroom make guests and family feel like they are in an elegant hotel. The new guest bath features 4”x36” “Silver Screen” honed marble tile in a brick pattern on the shower walls and 2”x2” “Chenille” limestone tile in a hexagon mosaic pattern on the shower floor. “I came in with very specific requirements for our three project areas,” Michelle says. “There was not one time that I felt like I was asking for something that was not going to turn out how I anticipated.” Tying in multiple rooms during a renovation if you have can do it makes a lot of sense and saves money in the long run. A fully functional laundry room as well was a must on this family’s wish list. Michelle wanted to add space to the existing cramped and awkward laundry room, and Mike wanted to make sure they could still park a car in the garage. Reconfiguring interior walls required borrowing unused space cleverly from the garage in order to enlarge the laundry room space. Drawers under the stairs added beautiful hidden storage created almost magically out of dead space. White painted Dura Supreme cabinets bring additional light into the small space; while the 16”x16” cleft slate tile flooring provides excellent contrast and the naturally earthy feel Michelle wanted. Quartz countertops with a 3”x12” “Debut Dew” subway tile backsplash add elegance to the now upliftingly bright laundry room. The extra space makes doing laundry much more pleasurable and the added storage is a great for all those little things like winter hats and gloves, umbrellas and the like. “The Advance Design project team was phenomenal to work with,” Michelle says. “They came in, shared the plans with us and walked us through the expectations. We always knew what was coming next.” Converting an existing closet space, the wet bar upstairs was challenging because they wanted a functional area that didn’t look or feel like cabinets just sticking out of a closet. So the Advance team transformed this ordinary closet space into a stunning wet bar that architecturally appears as if it’s always been there. Traditional, elegant hand carved custom molding matching the adjacent fireplace ties the new entertainment bar area in nicely with the existing family room and kitchen area. Featuring a built in wine refrigerator, Dura Supreme cabinetry in deep cherry wood elegantly displays wine bottles and etched glass mullion doors that fill with soft light in the evening hours. Cambria “Windermere” quartz countertops with a sophisticated hammered copper sink and a glimmering backsplash round out the stunning wet bar. Hosting parties and family functions has become much more enjoyable now that they have a dedicated beverage serving area large enough to include hors devours. All three projects were designed and constructed together at the same time, making for a cohesive project that was administered smoothly and easily both for the design team and for the family. Disruption to the home was minimal as each phase was completed in each project conclusively, and design and meeting time for the homeowner was efficient and organized making for an enjoyable process. “Advance Design was great to work with,” Michelle says. “I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a home improvement project. They took the time at the beginning to understand our needs, our budget, and our vision for our home. The field team was great, attentive, on time, cleaned up each day and made the overall experience very positive. We couldn't be happier with the finished product.” With the help of our talented, award winning design team you can create the basement, laundry room, or any other home renovation that you have been dreaming of. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating you home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-836-2600 or schedule an appointment to talk with us about that kitchen remodeling project. Joe Nowak