Carol Kurth Architecture, PC and Marie Aiello Design Sutdio, Peter Krupenye Photography
Huge trendy gray two-story stone exterior home photo in New York

This 2-story home needed a little love on the outside, with a new front porch to provide curb appeal as well as useful seating areas at the front of the home. The traditional style of the home was maintained, with it's pale yellow siding and black shutters. The addition of the front porch with flagstone floor, white square columns, rails and balusters, and a small gable at the front door helps break up the 2-story front elevation and provides the covered seating desired. Can lights in the wood ceiling provide great light for the space, and the gorgeous ceiling fans increase the breeze for the home owners when sipping their tea on the porch. The new stamped concrete walk from the driveway and simple landscaping offer a quaint picture from the street, and the homeowners couldn't be happier.

In this Victorian home on Capitol Hill, the interior had been gut renovated by a developer to match a modern farmhouse aesthetic which did not reflect our client. Our scope included a complete overhaul of the primary bathroom and powder room, a heavy kitchen refresh, along with new hardware, doors, paint, lighting, furnishings and window treatments throughout the home. Our goal was to also elevate the home’s architectural details, including a new stair rail, back to what could have been original millwork while creating a feminine, sophisticated space for a family of 5 (plus one adorable furry friend).

This 2-story home needed a little love on the outside, with a new front porch to provide curb appeal as well as useful seating areas at the front of the home. The traditional style of the home was maintained, with it's pale yellow siding and black shutters. The addition of the front porch with flagstone floor, white square columns, rails and balusters, and a small gable at the front door helps break up the 2-story front elevation and provides the covered seating desired. Can lights in the wood ceiling provide great light for the space, and the gorgeous ceiling fans increase the breeze for the home owners when sipping their tea on the porch. The new stamped concrete walk from the driveway and simple landscaping offer a quaint picture from the street, and the homeowners couldn't be happier.

The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit. Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable. The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside. Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune. The clients' needs and desires were: ➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups ➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas ➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework ➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme ➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage ➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave ➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by: ➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion ➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage. ➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners. ➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals. The project is enhanced functionally by: ➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island ➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table. ➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers ➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen ➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room. ➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage. ➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware. ➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards. The project is enhanced aesthetically by: ➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling ➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven ➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island ➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches ➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors. ➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space. ➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches. Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC: ➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band. ➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging. ➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash. Design obstacles to overcome: ➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel. ➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits ➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components. Evidence of superior craftsmanship: ➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal ➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen ➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look ➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space ➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

With its breathtaking panoramic views, this elevated escape blends sophistication, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. It’s designed as the ultimate private haven, offering a perfect balance of luxury and tranquility.

Visit Our Showroom 8000 Locust Mill St. Ellicott City, MD 21043 Cambria Oakhampton, Cambria Canterbury Quartz Stone Countertop Description: Cambria is a natural stone surface that is elegant and practical. Cambria is an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a maintenance free countertop with stunning aesthetics. Composed of 93% natural quartz and 7% pigments and epoxy resin, Cambria is an extremely durable material. STRENGTH & DURABILITY Cambria has performed numerous laboratory tests to prove that Cambria natural quartz surfaces are twice as strong as granite. It's a surface that is truly everlasting. MAINTENANCE FREE No sealing, polishing or reconditioning is needed. Simply wash with warm water. It's that simple. Cambria will resist stains from fruit juices, food coloring, coffee, tea, wine, grape juice, nail polish and felt tip markers. coffee, tea, wine, grape juice, nail polish and felt tip markers. FOOD SAFE Cambria has been certified by NSF International for use as a food preparation surface. Cambria is totally non-porous, making cleanup easy and preventing food and moisture from penetrating its surface — the main source of growth for harmful bacteria. NATURAL Cambria is created from natural quartz, an extremely hard stone crystal mined directly from the earth. In fact, quartz is the hardest non-precious stone that can be found in the earth's surface Elevations Design Solutions by Myers is the go-to inspirational, high-end showroom for the best in cabinetry, flooring, window and door design. Visit our showroom with your architect, contractor or designer to explore the brands and products that best reflects your personal style. We can assist in product selection, in-home measurements, estimating and design, as well as providing referrals to professional remodelers and designers.

Photo: Lauren Andersen © 2017 Houzz
Inspiration for an eclectic living room remodel in San Francisco

Example of a minimalist open concept kitchen design in San Diego with flat-panel cabinets and white cabinets

Designer: Paul Dybdahl Photographer: Shanna Wolf Designer’s Note: One of the main project goals was to develop a kitchen space that complimented the homes quality while blending elements of the new kitchen space with the homes eclectic materials. Japanese Ash veneers were chosen for the main body of the kitchen for it's quite linear appeals. Quarter Sawn White Oak, in a natural finish, was chosen for the island to compliment the dark finished Quarter Sawn Oak floor that runs throughout this home. The west end of the island, under the Walnut top, is a metal finished wood. This was to speak to the metal wrapped fireplace on the west end of the space. A massive Walnut Log was sourced to create the 2.5" thick 72" long and 45" wide (at widest end) living edge top for an elevated seating area at the island. This was created from two pieces of solid Walnut, sliced and joined in a book-match configuration. The homeowner loves the new space!! Cabinets: Premier Custom-Built Countertops: Leathered Granite The Granite Shop of Madison Location: Vermont Township, Mt. Horeb, WI

Kitchen - cottage kitchen idea in Chicago

AN INVITING BASEMENT REMODEL THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY Are you tired of your basement being a dreary space used solely for storage? Well, it's time to transform it into a cozy and inviting area that the whole family can enjoy! A basement remodel is the perfect opportunity to create a comfortable and functional space that will add value to your home. And what better way to elevate your basement's entertainment potential than with a built-in wet bar? Get ready to raise a glass and say cheers to comfort as we dive into the details of designing a cozy basement remodel. A basement remodel can add significant value to your home and give you more space to relax. On weekends, a basement bar will surely make your home the go-to spot for get togethers with friends. Before diving into your basement remodel, it's important to assess your space and determine its potential. Take a good look at the layout, lighting, and any existing features that could enhance your design. By assessing your basement space thoroughly, you'll be one step closer to creating a cozy and inviting oasis for your family. Perhaps you can incorporate a built-in bar with a green tile backsplash or add a touch of natural beauty with a live edge wood top. The bar features warm colors, rich textures in the hand made tile and plenty of seating space for family and friends to gather around. The bar live edge countertop with Hunter green epoxy center stage in our clients basement makeover and really brings the drama. ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY BASEMENT When designing a family-friendly basement, it's important to consider essential elements that will make the space comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. Incorporating a green epoxy flooring can add a vibrant and durable touch to your basement, making it easy to clean and perfect for kids' playtime. Additionally, consider adding ample storage solutions, cozy seating areas, and versatile lighting options to create a space that is functional, inviting, and perfect for family gatherings and entertainment.

A tea pot, being a vessel, is defined by the space it contains, it is not the tea pot that is important, but the space. Crispin Sartwell Located on a lake outside of Milwaukee, the Vessel House is the culmination of an intense 5 year collaboration with our client and multiple local craftsmen focused on the creation of a modern analogue to the Usonian Home. As with most residential work, this home is a direct reflection of it’s owner, a highly educated art collector with a passion for music, fine furniture, and architecture. His interest in authenticity drove the material selections such as masonry, copper, and white oak, as well as the need for traditional methods of construction. The initial diagram of the house involved a collection of embedded walls that emerge from the site and create spaces between them, which are covered with a series of floating rooves. The windows provide natural light on three sides of the house as a band of clerestories, transforming to a floor to ceiling ribbon of glass on the lakeside. The Vessel House functions as a gallery for the owner’s art, motorcycles, Tiffany lamps, and vintage musical instruments – offering spaces to exhibit, store, and listen. These gallery nodes overlap with the typical house program of kitchen, dining, living, and bedroom, creating dynamic zones of transition and rooms that serve dual purposes allowing guests to relax in a museum setting. Through it’s materiality, connection to nature, and open planning, the Vessel House continues many of the Usonian principles Wright advocated for. Overview Oconomowoc, WI Completion Date August 2015 Services Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture

Sally Painter
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary u-shaped gray floor kitchen remodel in Portland with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, stainless steel countertops, window backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a peninsula and gray countertops

Builder: Segard Builders Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography Symmetry and traditional sensibilities drive this homes stately style. Flanking garages compliment a grand entrance and frame a roundabout style motor court. On axis, and centered on the homes roofline is a traditional A-frame dormer. The walkout rear elevation is covered by a paired column gallery that is connected to the main levels living, dining, and master bedroom. Inside, the foyer is centrally located, and flanked to the right by a grand staircase. To the left of the foyer is the homes private master suite featuring a roomy study, expansive dressing room, and bedroom. The dining room is surrounded on three sides by large windows and a pair of French doors open onto a separate outdoor grill space. The kitchen island, with seating for seven, is strategically placed on axis to the living room fireplace and the dining room table. Taking a trip down the grand staircase reveals the lower level living room, which serves as an entertainment space between the private bedrooms to the left and separate guest bedroom suite to the right. Rounding out this plans key features is the attached garage, which has its own separate staircase connecting it to the lower level as well as the bonus room above.

An open kitchen flows perfectly into the dining and living room. Dark hardwood floors remain throughout the home. Recess lighting is spread evenly across the rooms while the breakfast bar creates a bit of separation.

Design ideas for a large asian partial sun backyard concrete paver formal garden for spring.

The large kitchen with breakfast nook offers a slightly warmer and more traditional style than the rest of the house. The two-toned cabinetry; done in a dark walnut stain and distressed ivory, offers a grand statement without looking overly heavy. The walls are painted in a soft, green tea shade. The counter facing the living room is dominated by a large hammered copper farmhouse sink with an ornate living finish that will change over time. A nice design detail is the elevated height of the dishwasher. The large granite island boasts a hammered copper prep sink, also featuring a living finish and fleur de lis detail. Photo credit: www.home-pix.com

Large farmhouse l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen photo in Portland Maine with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, yellow cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops