Search results for "Efficiently converts" in Home Design Ideas

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.

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.

Clean, separated, functional, classic and modern. That was our goal for this Northwest Austin Bathroom. Our client was looking for that "spa" feel and we carefully selected every aspect to deliver a project worthy of a deep exhale! Our challenge was to convert an open bathroom directly connected to the bedroom, into a separate functional yet classic oasis. To create this ultra-glam space, we started with recycled iridescent glass accent tiles as the center-piece and large metallic porcelain floor tiles with harmonizing hues all around. To create visual interest and added flair, the glam accent tiles were vertically installed behind the vanity and continue into the shower. Plenty of cabinets with clean modern lines were added for storage and organization. High efficiency lighting, clean modern handles and hardware complete the transformation. This Austin bathroom was approximately three months in the making.
Bee Creek Photography
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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

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.

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.

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.

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/

Converting a tub to a walk-in shower can significantly enhance the accessibility and modern appeal of your bathroom. Our expert tub-to-shower conversion services ensure a seamless transition, providing a sleek, space-efficient solution. Upgrade your home with a stylish walk-in shower and enjoy improved safety and convenience. Contact us today to learn more about our professional tub-to-walk-in shower conversion options.
Home Dr Pros is a general contractor in Knoxville, TN that remodels kitchens, basements, attics, and tub & shower conversions in Knoxville and the greater Knoxville area.

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.

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/

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.

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.

Castle converted a toilet and shower stall in the basement to a 1/2 bath.
Example of a mid-sized 1960s look-out carpeted, gray floor and shiplap wall basement design in Minneapolis with white walls
Example of a mid-sized 1960s look-out carpeted, gray floor and shiplap wall basement design in Minneapolis with white walls

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

The 300i brings a new level of convenience to wood fire connoisseurs. Expect superior efficiency, advanced technology, and user-friendly precision control. The 300i easily converts to an open fireplace with an optional fire screen, too.

How did these homeowners find us? They went and spied on their next-door neighbors project and asked us to come see what we could do with theirs! Right off the bat, Marty had a vision for the space, Andy figured out how to engineer all the difficult areas, and the renderings showed every detail of how we could drastically change the look and efficiency! Bam! They sign on the dotted line!
We moved appliances and plumbing, built a large island to seat the whole family with lots of prep space, and made sure we designed in comfort and style for entertaining. Some of the special features are decorative tile over the cooktop, custom Alder floating shelves retrofitted with task lighting, and converted the shallow closet pantry to an open nook with custom shelves and a pet treat drawer.
Needless to say, the homeowners were so ecstatic with the end result we threw them a kitchen reveal party for their friends and neighbors! Yep, we planned to keep it a secret to add to the suspense and it was a hit! It looks like we will be in their neighborhood for quite a while.

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

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/
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