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 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.

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 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.

Cabinet Refacing and Modification. These cabinets were converted from and assortment of inefficient sizes of cabinets and drawers to very efficient full extension drawers

This residence served to satisfy the Owner’s complex needs to relocate in the region efficiently, economically and expeditiously to a three bedroom, two bath residence. The site was purchased in a challenging real estate market with an existing, converted “A” frame camp home. The design was bound to the tight footprint by pre-existing wetland and zoning constraints. The existing 886 sqft foundation was repaired and reused with only a 150 sqft of allowable increase in footprint.

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/

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.

VPC completely remodeled this charming log cabin in Sugar Grove from top to bottom. Added features to the home include new stone fireplaces in the great room and the bonus room with reclaimed barn wood mantles, along with added framing and supports under both to help carry the loads from the new fireplaces, new tile shower and claw foot tub in the master bathroom, and new vanities with granite counter tops in every bathroom. Two closets were removed and a full bath was converted into a powder room to make space for a new bar area with custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, and a wine refrigerator. The loft bathroom was completely demoed and reconfigured. The vinyl tile in the laundry room was replaced with real tile in the laundry room and hardwood floors in the sun room. New custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, and high-efficiency appliances were added to the kitchen. All the hardwood floors throughout the home were sanded and stained.

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.

Maximizing storage without compromising the kitchen's timeless aesthetic required meticulous space planning and custom cabinetry design. Every inch was carefully optimized to increase functionality while maintaining the proportions and character of this luxury historic kitchen. A narrow space between the refrigerator and the wall ovens was transformed into full-height pull-out pantry cabinets, converting what could have been wasted space into highly efficient storage. These custom pull-out pantries provide exceptional organization and effortless access to pantry staples, spices, baking supplies, and small kitchen essentials, keeping everything within easy reach while preserving clean, uncluttered countertops. By extending the cabinetry to the ceiling, the design also enhances the room's architectural presence and reinforces the bespoke, furniture-quality craftsmanship throughout the kitchen. This thoughtful storage solution demonstrates how intelligent space planning and custom millwork can dramatically improve the functionality of a luxury kitchen while remaining true to the home's historic character.

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 summer travel season, we're especially inspired by the possibilities presented by the Barndominium - a unique style of home which has emerged as a popular "up north" family getaway concept over the last couple of years. Barndominiums are the product of large barn kits which are converted into a living space. They tend to be affordable, low-maintenance, and energy efficient houses that typically include a large attached garage. For large families and outdoor enthusiasts, the allure of the barndominium is clear - it combines a cottage-like, open-concept living space with a large attached garage capable of accommodating all of your vacation toys! We recently had the pleasure of helping make one Byron Center client's barndominium dream a reality. The home sits on several acres of northern Michigan land in which the family enjoys hunting, fishing, and all the recreational activities that the great outdoors have to offer.

During the construction phase, the owners of this Nantucket style carriage house tasked Sew Beautiful with the challenge of designing versatile, well-appointed and comfortable rooms. Above the garage, is an inviting living area finished with wide moldings and clean straight lines. Serving as home office, gathering space and guest bedroom suite, it is complete with a small efficiency kitchen, full bath and sweeping views of the Severn River from the adjacent outdoor deck. Natural elements bring together multipurpose design pieces. A herringbone staircase runner leads visitors up to the living area that is anchored with a tone on tone patterned wool rug, bordered by a leather band. Drapery panels with natural tape trim frame the expansive glass sliding doors, through which guests can move to comfortable outdoor deck furniture, shaded from the hot afternoon sun by a retractable awning. Most of the furnishings and artwork are locally sourced. A print, by Annapolis artist Nancy Hammond, sits above the desk in the great room which doubles as a table for entertaining. The sofa converts to a queen-size sleeping area. Upholstered chairs swivel to allow for views of the water and/or the television. The bedroom is large enough to fit a small dresser, side tables and king-size bed, draped in cozy, eye-catching bedding. Light from the wall mounted sconces accentuate the contemporary painting by local artist, Kim Hovell.

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.

Our clients in Dallas, Texas were looking to convert an understairs bar area and entertaining niche into a temperature-controlled wine storage space. This project is a stunning example of making the most of the footprint with an eye-catching and efficient design.

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.

Basement Development – Fort Sask Fitness The Design Studio | MTS Renovations transformed an unfinished residential basement into a fully functional, home-based fitness gym—Fort Sask. Fitness. This custom-designed space provides an inviting yet high-performance environment tailored for personal training and fitness sessions. Project Scope & Features: Design & Permitting - We prepared concept design layouts that we converted to construction drawings. We prepared and submitted all permitting applications for this home based business and provided client representation through each phase of the project up to and including final occupancy inspection. Space Planning & Layout Optimization – We maximized the existing footprint for optimal functionality, ensuring seamless equipment placement, circulation, and safety. Flooring Selection – We installed durable, shock-absorbing gym flooring to support high-impact training and reduce noise transfer. Lighting & Electrical Upgrades – We enhanced brightness and visibility with LED lighting, strategically placed for an energizing atmosphere. We added dedicated electrical circuits to accommodate specialized fitness equipment. Ventilation & Climate Control – We incorporated efficient HVAC solutions to maintain air quality and temperature for a comfortable workout space. Custom Storage & Organization – We integrated built-in under-stair equipment shelving and storage solutions for weights, resistance bands, and fitness accessories. Aesthetic & Branding Integration – We designed a modern, motivating environment with finishes that align with the Fort Sask. Fitness brand identity. Soundproofing Enhancements – We implemented acoustic treatments to minimize noise impact on the rest of the home. By blending function with design, this basement transformation created a professional-grade fitness space that caters to both personal and client needs—all within the convenience of a residential setting.

This home was originally built in the late 19th century. It was converted to a boarding house and used for this purpose and then divided into separate apartments for more than 100 years. Our owners restored it to its original intent and update the finishes on the interior and exterior. This home is in the Ridge Federal Historic District and protected by the local Historic Preservation Board. Katie Basil Photography