Search results for "Embracing materials" in Home Design Ideas

This light-filled culinary haven masterfully blends grand-scale functionality with an intimate, deeply layered aesthetic. Designed to handle both high-end meal preparation and casual entertaining, the space is structurally anchored by dual islands: a hardworking, slate-blue prep station topped with pristine white marble, and a separate, furniture-style oak trestle table that invites guests to pull up a stool.
The kitchen's true focal point is the dramatic cooking alcove, featuring a massive, custom matte black statement hood framed by a striking blue-and-white geometric tiled backsplash. Rather than sticking to a uniform look, the cabinetry embraces a sophisticated mix-and-match philosophy—combining crisp white perimeters, slate blue islands, and a rich, dark wood paneled refrigerator armoire that feels like a collected antique. Grounded by airy, wide-plank light hardwood floors and crowned by a glossy white shiplap ceiling that bounces natural light throughout, this space effortlessly balances high-end luxury with approachable, coastal-inspired warmth.

To infuse a pop of color into the overall design, we took cues from the client's cherished art piece of cherry blossoms they bought in Napa, CA, which boasts captivating shades of ruby red. With a keen eye for balance, we introduced vibrant ruby-red counter stools, beautifully complementing the neutral tones of the space.
This careful integration of color, along with the subtle gold accents and the chandeliers' soft bubbles, not only adds personality but also serves as a delightful reminder of the beauty of cherry blossoms and the cherished memories associated with the art piece.
We are proud to have brought this vision to life and to have created a space where our client can unwind and embrace the tranquil spirit of ocean living while cherishing the essence of cherry blossoms. It has been a pleasure to be a part of this project, and we look forward to continuing to create inspiring spaces that reflect the unique tastes and desires of our clients.

This gorgeous, nature-inspired Great Room—comprised of the kitchen, dining area, and sitting room—was reimagined for some wonderful repeat clients, beginning with a small, treasured piece of art.
Their large 1950s ranch house nestled into a gentle hill surrounded by orchards of fragrant orange, lemon, and cherry trees initially featured a too-small kitchen adjacent to a warren of small spaces with low ceilings serving as a dining and sitting area. They dreamed of a more spacious, light-filled layout.
A complete redesign of the home not only resolved spatial constraints but also embraced the beauty of the home’s natural surroundings. By removing walls and creating an open-plan layout, we enhanced the flow and connectivity between the kitchen, dining, and sitting areas, seamlessly integrating the outdoors with the indoors.
The relocated kitchen now faces the backyard, to facilitate outdoor entertaining and features a large island, serving as a welcoming focal point for both cooking and socializing. I designed a distinctive ceiling feature above the island, crafted from planks of the adjacent vaulted ceiling, mirroring the shape of the island below. This feature adds architectural interest and visually connects the flat kitchen plane with the vaulted plank ceiling of the sitting area, creating a harmonious sense of continuity and warmth.
A beautiful, prized painting of a bird on a branch created the direction for the color and texture palette. An intriguing yellow-green-tan background in the art guided my choices for the backsplash tile (an iridescent version mimics light glinting on water) and countertops. The kitchen's soothing color palette features various shades of natural green, while the dining area introduces feather-blue tones through chair upholstery and rug. Just steps away, the inviting sitting area features a rebuilt fireplace clad in cut, polished Haisa marble tiles in a vertical pattern. The soft, generous seating creates a comfortable spot for movie nights or cozying up by the fire on a cold winter evening. The elegant, simple silhouettes of the furniture enhance the serene and calming atmosphere of the space.
After photos: Bernardo Grijalva and Fiorito Interior Design
Cabinetry: custom by Schmitz Woodwork
Countertops: Primordia and Calcatta Maximus by Caesarstone
Backsplash: Elements in Miami Sand Pearl by Lunada Bay
Island pendants: Simple Sanders by Shades of Light
Stools: Essex by Lazar in Brisa fabric by Ultrafabrics
Dining table: Emerson Wave by Saloom
Dining chairs: Essex by Lazar
Dining lighting: Triad chandelier by Kichler
Dining rug: Soho Smoke by Jaunty Inc.
Sitting area sofa and ottoman: Corvo by Lazar
Sitting area swivel chair: Noah by Lazar
Sitting area rug: Soho Stone by Jaunty Inc.
Motorized shades: Hunter Douglas
Entry console: Reed by Uttermost
Entry light: Re by Visual Comfort
Fireplace: Haisa cut and polished marble by Icontile
Wall paint: Mascarpone by Benjamin Moore
Find the right local pro for your project

Step into the rejuvenation of a 1956 Golden Valley home, once owned by the clients’ mothers and now transformed under their ownership with a much-needed kitchen remodel. The original kitchen lacked countertop storage, featured outdated cabinets with black hinges and handles, embraced the typical soffits of the 50s era, and lacked an inviting ambiance.
Fueled by a passion for the outdoors and gardening, the homeowners opted for earthy green cabinets from Crystal Cabinets, seamlessly blending with the natural sanctuary just beyond their back door. The addition of a black glaze over the green cabinets, along with walnut accents, brought warmth and personality to the space, achieving the cozy, friendly vibe the homeowners desired.
Prioritizing functionality, a center island was introduced for entertaining grandchildren, top-of-the-line Subzero and Wolf appliances were seamlessly incorporated, and customized storage solutions were implemented to cater to the homeowners’ specific cooking needs. Soffits were removed, a closet with a vent stack was repurposed, and the vinyl floor was replaced with new hardwood to match the living room seamlessly.
The homeowners’ collection of brass kitchenware found its elegant showcase in a traditional hutch with opaque seedy glass doors, adding a touch of sophistication to the space. Personal touches, such as hand-selecting a granite stone slab reminiscent of their favorite landscape in Duluth, a glazed ceramic tile backsplash reaching the ceiling line, and the inclusion of Bicycle Glass, a local artisan, for wall sconces and pendants, further enhanced the kitchen’s unique character. Blown glass orbs soften sightlines, while the gold/black brilliance kitchen faucet with a textured handle adds a playful touch. Every aspect of this new kitchen is a reflection of the homeowners’ down-to-earth personalities, creating a space that is both functional and filled with personality.

Beautiful, simplistic bedroom with primed wood feature wall.
Kristian Walker Photography
Inspiration for a cottage guest medium tone wood floor bedroom remodel in Grand Rapids with white walls
Inspiration for a cottage guest medium tone wood floor bedroom remodel in Grand Rapids with white walls

With no windows or natural light, we used a combination of artificial light, open space, and white walls to brighten this master bath remodel. Over the white, we layered a sophisticated palette of finishes that embrace color, pattern, and texture: 1) long hex accent tile in “lemongrass” gold from Walker Zanger (mounted vertically for a new take on mid-century aesthetics); 2) large format slate gray floor tile to ground the room; 3) textured 2X10 glossy white shower field tile (can’t resist touching it); 4) rich walnut wraps with heavy graining to define task areas; and 5) dirty blue accessories to provide contrast and interest.
Photographer: Markert Photo, Inc.

This traditional kitchen, nestled in a charming 1920s home in a historic Chicago neighborhood, beautifully blends classic design with modern functionality. Taupe-painted cabinets lend a soft, timeless elegance, while a rich walnut island adds warmth and a touch of natural sophistication. Glass-fronted cabinets showcase heirloom dishware, and the farmhouse sink offers both practicality and a nod to vintage charm. The stunning quartzite countertops bring a contemporary edge to the space, with their subtle veining and durable beauty. Together, these elements create a kitchen that honors the past while embracing the comfort and style of today.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Josh Thornton
Large elegant dark wood floor bedroom photo in Chicago with pink walls and no fireplace
Large elegant dark wood floor bedroom photo in Chicago with pink walls and no fireplace

Embracing an authentic Craftsman-styled kitchen was one of the primary objectives for these New Jersey clients. They envisioned bending traditional hand-craftsmanship and modern amenities into a chef inspired kitchen. The woodwork in adjacent rooms help to facilitate a vision for this space to create a free-flowing open concept for family and friends to enjoy.
This kitchen takes inspiration from nature and its color palette is dominated by neutral and earth tones. Traditionally characterized with strong deep colors, the simplistic cherry cabinetry allows for straight, clean lines throughout the space. A green subway tile backsplash and granite countertops help to tie in additional earth tones and allow for the natural wood to be prominently displayed.
The rugged character of the perimeter is seamlessly tied into the center island. Featuring chef inspired appliances, the island incorporates a cherry butchers block to provide additional prep space and seating for family and friends. The free-standing stainless-steel hood helps to transform this Craftsman-style kitchen into a 21st century treasure.

Eat-in kitchen - large transitional galley light wood floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen idea in Phoenix with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, brown backsplash, brick backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

Mid-sized transitional kids' white tile and stone tile marble floor, white floor, single-sink and wallpaper bathroom photo in Denver with shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, multicolored walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, white countertops, a niche and a built-in vanity

Welcome to this captivating house renovation, a harmonious fusion of natural allure and modern aesthetics. The kitchen welcomes you with its elegant combination of bamboo and black cabinets, where organic textures meet sleek sophistication. The centerpiece of the living area is a dramatic full-size black porcelain slab fireplace, exuding contemporary flair and making a bold statement. Ascend the floating stair, accented with a sleek glass handrail, and experience a seamless transition between floors, elevating the sense of open space and modern design. As you explore further, you'll discover three modern bathrooms, each featuring similar design elements with bamboo and black accents, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the home. Embrace the essence of this remarkable renovation, where nature-inspired materials and sleek finishes harmonize to create a stylish and inviting living space.

addet madan Design
Bathroom - mid-sized contemporary 3/4 beige tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile and beige floor bathroom idea in Los Angeles with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an undermount tub, beige walls, an integrated sink and solid surface countertops
Bathroom - mid-sized contemporary 3/4 beige tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile and beige floor bathroom idea in Los Angeles with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an undermount tub, beige walls, an integrated sink and solid surface countertops

The "Dream of the '90s" was alive in this industrial loft condo before Neil Kelly Portland Design Consultant Erika Altenhofen got her hands on it. The 1910 brick and timber building was converted to condominiums in 1996. No new roof penetrations could be made, so we were tasked with creating a new kitchen in the existing footprint. Erika's design and material selections embrace and enhance the historic architecture, bringing in a warmth that is rare in industrial spaces like these. Among her favorite elements are the beautiful black soapstone counter tops, the RH medieval chandelier, concrete apron-front sink, and Pratt & Larson tile backsplash

The "Dream of the '90s" was alive in this industrial loft condo before Neil Kelly Portland Design Consultant Erika Altenhofen got her hands on it. The 1910 brick and timber building was converted to condominiums in 1996. No new roof penetrations could be made, so we were tasked with creating a new kitchen in the existing footprint. Erika's design and material selections embrace and enhance the historic architecture, bringing in a warmth that is rare in industrial spaces like these. Among her favorite elements are the beautiful black soapstone counter tops, the RH medieval chandelier, concrete apron-front sink, and Pratt & Larson tile backsplash

Step into the world of "Sleek Elegance," where a contemporary kitchen renovation awaits. Embracing an open concept design, this project boasts slim shaker cabinets that exude modern simplicity and refined style. The focal point of the space is the striking stone hood, adding a touch of natural allure and architectural grandeur. Discover the perfect balance of functionality and sophistication in this captivating culinary haven, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a space that is both inviting and effortlessly chic.

Step into the world of "Sleek Elegance," where a contemporary kitchen renovation awaits. Embracing an open concept design, this project boasts slim shaker cabinets that exude modern simplicity and refined style. The focal point of the space is the striking stone hood, adding a touch of natural allure and architectural grandeur. Discover the perfect balance of functionality and sophistication in this captivating culinary haven, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a space that is both inviting and effortlessly chic.

Cabin Kitchen
Photo: David Bowen
Open concept kitchen - small cottage u-shaped porcelain tile and gray floor open concept kitchen idea in Bridgeport with an integrated sink, shaker cabinets, green cabinets, soapstone countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, white appliances and an island
Open concept kitchen - small cottage u-shaped porcelain tile and gray floor open concept kitchen idea in Bridgeport with an integrated sink, shaker cabinets, green cabinets, soapstone countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, white appliances and an island

Bob Greenspan Photography
Example of a mid-sized mountain style concrete floor and brown floor basement design in Kansas City
Example of a mid-sized mountain style concrete floor and brown floor basement design in Kansas City

WINNER: Silver Award – One-of-a-Kind Custom or Spec 4,001 – 5,000 sq ft, Best in American Living Awards, 2019
Affectionately called The Magnolia, a reference to the architect's Southern upbringing, this project was a grass roots exploration of farmhouse architecture. Located in Phoenix, Arizona’s idyllic Arcadia neighborhood, the home gives a nod to the area’s citrus orchard history.
Echoing the past while embracing current millennial design expectations, this just-complete speculative family home hosts four bedrooms, an office, open living with a separate “dirty kitchen”, and the Stone Bar. Positioned in the Northwestern portion of the site, the Stone Bar provides entertainment for the interior and exterior spaces. With retracting sliding glass doors and windows above the bar, the space opens up to provide a multipurpose playspace for kids and adults alike.
Nearly as eyecatching as the Camelback Mountain view is the stunning use of exposed beams, stone, and mill scale steel in this grass roots exploration of farmhouse architecture. White painted siding, white interior walls, and warm wood floors communicate a harmonious embrace in this soothing, family-friendly abode.
Project Details // The Magnolia House
Architecture: Drewett Works
Developer: Marc Development
Builder: Rafterhouse
Interior Design: Rafterhouse
Landscape Design: Refined Gardens
Photographer: ProVisuals Media
Awards
Silver Award – One-of-a-Kind Custom or Spec 4,001 – 5,000 sq ft, Best in American Living Awards, 2019
Featured In
“The Genteel Charm of Modern Farmhouse Architecture Inspired by Architect C.P. Drewett,” by Elise Glickman for Iconic Life, Nov 13, 2019
12

