This Pond build consisted of a 8′x 11′ Aquascape Ecosystem Pond in Lancaster, PA. Also included were a few flagstone steppers as well as pine bark mulch surrounding the pond. An ecosystem pond works with Mother Nature to provide food, shelter, and safety to the wildlife around it. It also provides you with an all-natural, low-maintenance piece of paradise. It’s important to remember, however, that every piece of the ecosystem puzzle must be present in order for a true ecosystem to be in place. Eliminate one of these elements and you’ve got an unbalanced ecosystem that won’t be so low-maintenance anymore.

The Ross Peak Great Room Guillotine Fireplace is the perfect focal point for this contemporary room. The guillotine fireplace door consists of a custom formed brass mesh door, providing a geometric element when the door is closed. The fireplace surround is Natural Etched Steel, with a complimenting brass mantle. Shown with custom niche for Fireplace Tools.

In collaboration with the Lawrenceville Corporation, Rothschild Doyno, and The Urban Redevelopment Authority, EcoCraft Homes is helping to redefine the image of affordable urban housing. Working through a newly defined mechanism called the “Community Land Trust” program Lawrenceville Corporation is pioneering a new standard for community development and affordable home ownership. Phase one of the CLT development consists of 6 new and one renovation unit that are built with materials that are equal to, or often times of a higher quality than the market rate homes that Lawrenceville has become known for. In addition, every CLT home has been designed to seamlessly integrate into existing historical fabric of Upper Lawrenceville by respecting and implementing design elements from contextual neighborhood patterns. The CLT design team’s radically different approach to sustainability, resiliency, and energy efficiency will ensure the affordability of these homes remain intact for generations, challenging the idea that affordability should equate to compromises in the quality of living.

Mediterranean gardens inspire this landscape design consisting of a series of outdoor "rooms" complementing the house. Play lawn, dining terrance, and pool area are linked by the garden's central path, which terminates at the pool's impressive vista of surrounding ranch land. The gardens provide floral displays throughout the year, contrasting the drifts of agave plants. A quiet birdbath, wall fountains, and negative-edged pool contribute to water's central and unifying role in the garden, and all elements are composed to gently guide one's gaze to the surrounding rolling hills, large oak trees, and endless sky. MGCD Photography

A complete renovation, as well as a two story addition, consisting of 6 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The house has very modern elements, such as a very open floor plan, and several skylights throughout the house. Photos by Marty Maxwell

Transitional Wine Room by Kessick Wine Storage Systems. To achieve the updated design elements we applied a walnut stain to the Sapele mahogany. The design characteristics of transitional wine cabinetry consist of: • Recessed toe kick • Square tasting/decanting niche • Slab cabinet doors with continual vertical grain • Square fascia on top • Floating top (racking does not go all the way to the ceiling) • Integrated with Wine-As-Art hardware and independent WAA wall panels. • Label forward horizontal cradle shelving, 3 deep

This Denver Area Littleton home was in desperate need of new siding. The composite wood siding was swelling and soft in many areas, with consistent edge-checking on nearly every lap. We replaced the siding, trim, soffits and fascia using James Hardie fiber cement and we installed Hardie's beaded porch panel on the porch ceiling for a timeless finished look. The homeowners had always dreamed of having a classic yellow house, so that's what we painted it! We used Sherwin-Williams Duration exterior paint for superior longevity in the Colorado elements.

The home’s warm wood elements are balanced by lots of natural light and white walls. These finishes are used consistently throughout the home with interest generated by pops of color and occasional shiny surfaces to contrast the duller wood surfaces.

Stunning Mill Valley contemporary filled with light! Beautifully remodeled with attention to detail and the finest finishes. Perfectly situated on the lower level of Mount Tamalpais and a short drive to downtown. Upper level consists of a master bedroom and bath, architecturally pleasing great room with fireplace, large dining area and open kitchen with a long countertop-bar. Sliding doors off of the great room lead to a fabulous deck for entertaining with views out to the San Francisco Bay. The lower level has two additional bedrooms and a full bath and access to a 2-car attached garage with plenty of room for storage. An additional detached storage shed, a hot tub, outdoor shower, level lawn, and cozy outdoor spaces complete this exceptional property. Close to downtown Mill Valley, easy San Francisco commute, hiking trails not far from your front door, and all of the beauty that Mill Valley has to offer.

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

Check out this newly refreshed kitchen and custom reading nook! Every element, surface, accessory, corner, and window treatment in this entire kitchen is completely new, EXCEPT the cabinets & appliances. We are known for our ability to create massive transformations without necessarily breaking the bank. DiD consistently presents our clients with multiple options as to how their home can be redone and always takes into account the ‘comfort zone’ of our clients. The new end result is a happy, bright space that feels softly flooded with sunshine! Take a look at more details in the newly redone family room here.

A complete renovation, as well as a two story addition, consisting of 6 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The house has very modern elements, such as a very open floor plan, and several skylights throughout the house. Photos by Marty Maxwell

The Setup For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners wanted to transform their large, T-shaped bathroom into a functional, multi-purpose sanctuary. The existing layout was inefficient, with a bulky built-in tub, a closed-off shower, and an awkward footprint that limited practical use. This remodel also presented a unique challenge – the homeowners wanted to use the space for workouts as well. The design needed to maximize the large open area in the middle of the T, providing enough room for yoga and light free-weight exercises while maintaining the bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality. Design objectives: Expand and brighten the shower area without major layout changes Replace the oversized built-in tub with a sleek freestanding alternative Create a flexible space for workouts while maintaining the bathroom’s design integrity Address cold flooring with added comfort solutions Enhance lighting for both beauty and functionality Incorporate storage for workout equipment and everyday essentials Integrate natural elements to accommodate the homeowners’ love of plants The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: Shower Expansion – The homeowners want a more open, spa-like shower but don’t want to dramatically alter the footprint. Workout Integration – Balancing fitness functionality with a serene bathroom design will require creative layout adjustments. Storage Solutions – With workout gear to stow away, the space needs discrete and versatile storage options. Lighting – Enhancing both natural and artificial lighting to brighten the large space. Cold Floors – Positioned above the garage, the bathroom tends to feel colder than the adjacent primary bedroom. A solution is needed to add warmth and comfort during use, without the need to reconfigure the home’s overall heating system. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Spa-Like Shower Expansion – Removing a wall and replacing it with glass transformed the shower into an open, airy retreat, allowing natural light to flow freely through the space. A curved black river rock floor and neutral linear wall tiles add warmth and texture, while carefully placed niche lighting enhances the tranquil, luxurious atmosphere. Workout-Friendly Layout – A custom full-length mirror was strategically placed to accommodate multiple uses, creating a fitness studio-like experience for yoga or light weight training. The mirror’s size and positioning allow for clear visibility during workouts, while also enhancing the room by adding light and a greater sense of depth. Custom Storage Solutions – A custom cabinet with a wood top was crafted to discreetly store workout equipment, preserving the clean, open feel of the space. Its design not only enhances functionality but also creates a sense of symmetry, bringing visual balance and cohesion to the overall layout. Enhanced Lighting – Replacing the shower wall with glass, installing a full-length mirror, and incorporating vanity mirrors with built-in lighting dramatically brighten the space. LED strip lighting under the cabinets, along the tub half wall, and in both the side and shower niches adds layered illumination, enhancing both function and ambiance. Heated Floors – Installing heated flooring provides consistent warmth and comfort year-round, enhancing the space for both workouts and daily routines. A European-style towel warmer brings additional warmth and a touch of luxury, elevating the overall experience. Final Thoughts: This transformed bathroom blends luxury with intentional design. By addressing the homeowners’ needs – from workout flexibility to spa-inspired details – the space now serves multiple purposes without compromise. The warm cabinetry, black accents and thoughtful lighting tie the design together, while the curved textures and plant-friendly ledge add a personalized touch. This bathroom is now a bright, welcoming sanctuary for daily routines and mindful moments.

This project involved a complete gut of an existing master bath space. The fixtures and finishes were far beyond their prime. The space itself was a nice size, especially for a Victorian home, but the arrangement of the fixtures was all wrong. The solution was to rearrange all of the primary bath functions and make the space more user friendly. A new walk-in shower with a wood drying platform became a focal point at one end of the room. Pale grey cabinets, with a clean and light counter surface, is enhanced by the huge amount of natural light that pours in from an existing sky light. Being consistent with materials around the room helped to unify the space. The solid surface material at shower bench, vanity counter, curbing and wall caps all stay quiet, allowing the color elements to pop. Contemporary, polished nickel fixtures give the space a modern edge. The end result is an awake, bright and lively place to start the day. Photography by Emily O'brien

This charming Chappaqua renovation prioritizes comfort and tranquility for empty nesters. With a soothing neutral palette and modern aesthetic, each room seamlessly incorporates unique elements, fostering both relaxation and connection within the home. The open floor plan of the family room and kitchen allows for effortless flow onto this expansive deck. The use of a consistent soft black color on both the deck and exterior trim creates a cohesive aesthetic, while the comfortable seating and dining area provide a perfect setting for gatherings and al fresco entertaining.

The new backyard consists of a new stain and stamp patio, re-plastering the pool, new coping and new pool surround as well as a new cedar pergola. Each element of the project worked together like a puzzle. The final outcome resulting in three additions that flow together as one comfortable poolside outdoor living room.

Looking throughout this space, the pillars that are consistently placed, structurally needed, really help this open concept home, feel like is still has each room. Giving it the division it needs without the interruption that open concept is not known for.

For this landscape design and installation in the Piney Point neighborhood of Houston, TX, our goal was to embrace and enhance the minimalist and modern ethos of the home. Guided by our commitment to sustainability, we consistently salvage elements from the original landscape whenever possible and in this case, we chose to design the landscape around the existing driveway. Our aim was to reinvent the feel of the entrance area entirely. We installed Blackstar gravel and stamped, stained concrete in a clean and simple alternating pattern to infuse texture and depth into the landscape. To add greenery to the property without detracting from the modern feel and simplicity of the design, we installed over 1000 dwarf mondo grass plants in rows, infusing them into the pattern.

This Spring Valley yard was an incredibly complicated build. With over 5 stories of elevation change in the yard from the front to the back of the property, creating a sense of consistency and integration was a challenge. The expansive yard demanded a lot of thought be put into the cohesive design elements to make one's area flow with ease from one place to the next. The lengthy water feature, multiple patios and planting areas, all were linked with a multiple allen block retaining walls and sienna stone stairs. Photo Credit: Jamen Rhodes