2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000 A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost. The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional. The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven. The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space. On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator. The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired. The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast. The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

In a location where space to build a wall is limited and vertical drop is not, being able to go straight up is important. This is where a modular block product in invaluable. Construction of this wall enabled the homeowner to maximize their backyard space and accommodate the 6' grade difference between their property and the neighbor.

A kitchen renovation is one of the most impactful ways to enhance a home’s value, functionality, and aesthetics. Whether in New York’s compact urban apartments or New Jersey’s spacious suburban homes, homeowners are constantly seeking innovative solutions to optimize their kitchen spaces. The key elements in any renovation are kitchen cabinets, layout efficiency, and design aesthetics. With advancements in technology, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the industry, making the renovation process faster, smarter, and more cost-effective. The Role of Kitchen Cabinets in Renovation Kitchen cabinets serve as the foundation of any kitchen design. They not only provide storage but also define the overall look and feel of the space. From traditional wood finishes to sleek, modern designs, selecting the right cabinets is crucial to achieving both form and function. In New York, where space is often limited, custom cabinetry solutions that maximize storage without compromising aesthetics are in high demand. Conversely, in New Jersey’s larger homes, homeowners have the flexibility to explore spacious layouts with expansive cabinetry options. The emergence of high-quality, customizable kitchen cabinetry has allowed homeowners to create tailored solutions that fit their lifestyles and design preferences. Kitchen Design Trends and Innovation Modern kitchen design is driven by a combination of style, efficiency, and sustainability. Open-concept layouts, handle-free cabinets, and smart storage solutions are gaining popularity among homeowners. Additionally, materials such as quartz countertops, high-gloss finishes, and natural wood elements continue to be top choices for a contemporary aesthetic. With an increasing focus on sustainability, many homeowners are opting for eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances. Smart kitchens, equipped with IoT-enabled appliances, voice-controlled lighting, and automated temperature control, are also becoming a standard in high-end renovations. Revolutionizing Kitchen Renovation with AI AI-powered design solutions are transforming how homeowners plan and execute kitchen renovations. Allreno, a cutting-edge AI-driven renovation platform, is leading the charge in making kitchen remodels more efficient and accessible. With Allreno’s AI design technology, homeowners can visualize their dream kitchens instantly, experiment with different layouts, and receive cost-effective recommendations without the traditional back-and-forth with designers. This AI-driven approach drastically reduces the time required for planning, ensuring a seamless renovation experience. Homeowners can explore various cabinet styles, finishes, and configurations tailored to their space and budget, ultimately streamlining the decision-making process. New York and New Jersey: The Perfect Markets for AI-Powered Renovation New York and New Jersey offer a diverse range of homes, from historic brownstones and luxury penthouses to sprawling suburban residences. Each renovation project comes with its unique challenges, whether it's maximizing storage in a Manhattan apartment or designing a spacious, chef-friendly kitchen in a New Jersey home. Allreno’s AI technology is particularly beneficial in these markets, where efficiency, precision, and customization are essential. By integrating AI into the renovation process, homeowners can make data-driven decisions, ensuring their new kitchens are not only stylish but also highly functional. The Future of Kitchen Renovation As technology continues to evolve, AI-driven platforms like Allreno will play an increasingly significant role in home renovations. By simplifying the design process, offering real-time visualizations, and providing cost-effective solutions, AI is making high-quality kitchen renovations more accessible than ever. For homeowners in New York and New Jersey looking to renovate their kitchens, embracing AI-driven solutions can lead to a faster, smarter, and more personalized experience. Whether upgrading kitchen cabinets, optimizing layouts, or selecting the perfect design elements, the future of kitchen renovation is here—and it’s powered by AI. Tags: ai design, bathroom renovation, renovation, bathroom design, interior design www.allreno.co

At exactly 400sf, this Accessory Dwelling Unit was originally an alley garage crammed with junk, and nearly falling over. Intended as a short- or long-term rental, a family guest house, summer party spot, and a potential future home for the clients, this ADU had to live larger than its actual square footage. Because of this, there needed to be a full kitchen, dining, living space, and limited long-term storage, as well as have the ability to fully open up to a landscaped patio. The clients also wanted to be sure that the space was extremely energy efficient, as well as budget-conscious. Using the existing footprint, and a small portion of the garage to construct the new ADU enabled the homeowners keep the structure very close to the property lines, way within current setback requirements. This one move, although it ended up being a more expensive option than building completely new, saved the small back yard from being fully overtaken. The plan of this unit is very simple, and we used a slim palette of finishes; both moves make it seem larger than it is. White walls and cabinets are punctuated by black stained wood doors and windows, and vertical grain Douglas Fir was used for window sills, shelving, and wall base. We used a mixture of the clients’ vintage door hardware and kitchen pulls with some new fixtures for the build-out to make it somewhat eclectic and personal. Photographer: Matt Swain Photography

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000 A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost. The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional. The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven. The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space. On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator. The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired. The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast. The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

Converting a home office into a nursery for a growing family presented some interesting challenges because of the spatial limitations. Originally, the space housed an enclosed side porch in this small 1940's post war cottage style home. During the planning stage, the decision was made that the design elements of the nursery would be consistent with those previously used in the refurbished home…a soft, sophisticated mix of traditional furnishings accented with contemporary styled pieces and elements set within a monochromatic color scheme. Knowing that the expected child was a girl enabled the exploration of a full range of feminine options. To maximize style, unify the space, and preserve the impression of childlike innocence a decision was reached to use minimalist colors. Winter Morning coats the walls with just a hint of pink as seen in the sky at sunrise. Texture is introduced in a blush linen; its hue was chosen to increase spatial perception within this compact nursery. The same linen covers the crib bumper pads and upholsters the small scale glider. Blush is repeated in the chenille braid on the bumper pads, the pleat closures for the tailored striped silk crib skirt and, again, on the trim of the stripped silk drapery panels which are hung to the ceiling adding visual height and providing yards of gentle softness to the area. Antique botanicals from the owner's childhood provide femininity and a connection to the past. Mounted from the ceiling is a small glazed chandelier with clear crystal and rose quartz pendants perfectly suited for the little charmer who will occupy this room. The space may be small in size, but it is large in style, functionality, and filled with love.

This natural house design sits nestled within a hillside and looks out over the natural creek that flows from behind the home, underneath the home and diagonally across the front yard. The design intent of the home was to not overpower the natural elements of the site, but to work with nature to create vistas for enjoying nature. The home was designed to look smaller than its actual size so it doesn’t seem foreign to the site and the hillside. The home embraces an open floor plan and uses multiple design features to define the many spaces and to enable connection with nature. Design features include varying ceiling heights defining space, usage of large 13 foot high movable glass walls, usage of rich wood floors and numerous architectural elements and design features that integrate nature and the modern vocabulary. Even though the site is large, the buildable area is small due to the natural waterway traveling underneath (underground and is not visible) the home and across the site and significantly limited the buildable area. As a solution, the architect designed the home to nestle into the hillside above the underground waterway and by raising the primary living areas, courtyard with pool, and rear yard. The rear lawn is made of natural looking synthetic material and is surrounded by indigenous Georgia vegetation. The first floor spaces were optimized and include entryway, art gallery, theater, workshop, in-law suite, garages and multiple utility spaces.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000 A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost. The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional. The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven. The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space. On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator. The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired. The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast. The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

This waterfront recording cottage is a remarkable feat of engineering and design, built in just nine months, despite the challenges posed by its location on an island with limited vehicular access. Our team worked closely with an Architect, Landscape Architect, Studio Designer & Audio Visual team to create a space that is truly one of a kind. The cottage features a sound isolated live room and an isolation booth that are fully equipped with top-of-the-line recording equipment. The recording space is fully integrated with multi-room control, enabling the user to monitor the recording process from any room in the cottage. In addition, it is equipped with two kitchenettes, one and a half baths and a state-of-the-art Lutron lighting system, adding ambiance to the space, and setting the right mood for the musicians. The result of this custom build is a recording studio that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, providing the perfect space for creativity.

ARPTR151GM2: adorne® Magnesium colored Pop-Out Outlet in 1-Gang Frame. The Pop-Out Outlet lets you hide an outlet when not in use. Simply push on the outlet and it disappears into the wall. When you're ready to plug something in, just push on the box and the outlets will "pop out," enabling easy access to power. Patented shutter system helps prevent improper insertion of foreign objects. Push on the box and the outlets will "pop out," enabling easy access to power. Includes capacity for three plugs. Configuration easily supports two plugs and offers the capacity of a standard outlet. Easy "1-for-1" installation lets you simply replace your existing outlet in just minutes. Requires a minimum box size of 22.5 cubic inches. Intended for indoor wall mount use only. Pop Out Outlets require a special frame (included in package) and are not compatible with those used with adorne wall plates. Meant to combined with "AW" series of adorne wall plates. UL Listed Tamper Resistant Country: Canada Limited Lifetime Warranty

jrastudios
Kitchen - transitional kitchen idea in Charlotte

Converting a home office into a nursery for a growing family presented some interesting challenges because of the spatial limitations. Originally, the space housed an enclosed side porch in this small 1940's post war cottage style home. During the planning stage, the decision was made that the design elements of the nursery would be consistent with those previously used in the refurbished home…a soft, sophisticated mix of traditional furnishings accented with contemporary styled pieces and elements set within a monochromatic color scheme. Knowing that the expected child was a girl enabled the exploration of a full range of feminine options. To maximize style, unify the space, and preserve the impression of childlike innocence a decision was reached to use minimalist colors. Winter Morning coats the walls with just a hint of pink as seen in the sky at sunrise. Texture is introduced in a blush linen; its hue was chosen to increase spatial perception within this compact nursery. The same linen covers the crib bumper pads and upholsters the small scale glider. Blush is repeated in the chenille braid on the bumper pads, the pleat closures for the tailored striped silk crib skirt and, again, on the trim of the stripped silk drapery panels which are hung to the ceiling adding visual height and providing yards of gentle softness to the area. Antique botanicals from the owner's childhood provide femininity and a connection to the past. Mounted from the ceiling is a small glazed chandelier with clear crystal and rose quartz pendants perfectly suited for the little charmer who will occupy this room. The space may be small in size, but it is large in style, functionality, and filled with love.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000 A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost. The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional. The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven. The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space. On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator. The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired. The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast. The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

A low bay window and a second unnecessary door to the backyard limited options for reworking the layout. The solution was to replace the window with a new unit that would offer a great spot for a new farm sink. Eliminating the unused back door enabled us to locate a large new pantry and fridge in its place. (A second door to the backyard remained intact). Connecting the kitchen to the dining room was also a priority. A wide new cased opening makes the dining and kitchen flow beautifully, allowing the cook to chat with guests. New gourmet appliances and a large island offer all the amenities an avid cook could want. On the seating side of the island, lap drawers keep school supplies handy. A tall “between the studs” cabinet offers dedicated storage for kids snacks and a handy spot for mail and school info, so the counters stay free of papers. A charging drawer also helps keep the kitchen tidy. The palette for the new kitchen features fresh white perimeter cabinets, with a contrasting dark stained island, open shelves, and custom hood. The homeowners could not be happier with their new kitchen, which has gone from almost unusable to being the true heart of their home!

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000 A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost. The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional. The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven. The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space. On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator. The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired. The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast. The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

Our mission on this project was to replace an existing basic garage with a functional and attractive new multi-bay garage to house several collector automobiles. The homeowners also had a wish list for a mudroom addition, a kitchen re-do, a bathroom renovation, and systems modifications. Requirements for the garage were specific: a hydraulic lift for working on cars, a second story for storage, and heating and insulation. Serious green thumbs, the couple wanted space for gardening equipment as well. And the garage design should complement the traditional style of the existing house, a classic Chestnut Hill stone colonial revival, built around 1925. As we progressed with the design, the storage room upstairs got upgraded to a multi-purpose studio/loft with a full bath and a shaded balcony. Although the Philadelphia zoning code permits a detached garage at this location, the proposed size—both the footprint and the height needed to accommodate a lift—exceeded the zoning code limits. We shepherded the design through a lengthy zoning review process and obtained a variance, enabling construction to move ahead. Once finishing touches on the interior of the house are completed, we’ll have more photos to share.

At exactly 400sf, this Accessory Dwelling Unit was originally an alley garage crammed with junk, and nearly falling over. Intended as a short- or long-term rental, a family guest house, summer party spot, and a potential future home for the clients, this ADU had to live larger than its actual square footage. Because of this, there needed to be a full kitchen, dining, living space, and limited long-term storage, as well as have the ability to fully open up to a landscaped patio. The clients also wanted to be sure that the space was extremely energy efficient, as well as budget-conscious. Using the existing footprint, and a small portion of the garage to construct the new ADU enabled the homeowners keep the structure very close to the property lines, way within current setback requirements. This one move, although it ended up being a more expensive option than building completely new, saved the small back yard from being fully overtaken. The plan of this unit is very simple, and we used a slim palette of finishes; both moves make it seem larger than it is. White walls and cabinets are punctuated by black stained wood doors and windows, and vertical grain Douglas Fir was used for window sills, shelving, and wall base. We used a mixture of the clients’ vintage door hardware and kitchen pulls with some new fixtures for the build-out to make it somewhat eclectic and personal. Photographer: Matt Swain Photography

At exactly 400sf, this Accessory Dwelling Unit was originally an alley garage crammed with junk, and nearly falling over. Intended as a short- or long-term rental, a family guest house, summer party spot, and a potential future home for the clients, this ADU had to live larger than its actual square footage. Because of this, there needed to be a full kitchen, dining, living space, and limited long-term storage, as well as have the ability to fully open up to a landscaped patio. The clients also wanted to be sure that the space was extremely energy efficient, as well as budget-conscious. Using the existing footprint, and a small portion of the garage to construct the new ADU enabled the homeowners keep the structure very close to the property lines, way within current setback requirements. This one move, although it ended up being a more expensive option than building completely new, saved the small back yard from being fully overtaken. The plan of this unit is very simple, and we used a slim palette of finishes; both moves make it seem larger than it is. White walls and cabinets are punctuated by black stained wood doors and windows, and vertical grain Douglas Fir was used for window sills, shelving, and wall base. We used a mixture of the clients’ vintage door hardware and kitchen pulls with some new fixtures for the build-out to make it somewhat eclectic and personal. Photographer: Matt Swain Photography

At exactly 400sf, this Accessory Dwelling Unit was originally an alley garage crammed with junk, and nearly falling over. Intended as a short- or long-term rental, a family guest house, summer party spot, and a potential future home for the clients, this ADU had to live larger than its actual square footage. Because of this, there needed to be a full kitchen, dining, living space, and limited long-term storage, as well as have the ability to fully open up to a landscaped patio. The clients also wanted to be sure that the space was extremely energy efficient, as well as budget-conscious. Using the existing footprint, and a small portion of the garage to construct the new ADU enabled the homeowners keep the structure very close to the property lines, way within current setback requirements. This one move, although it ended up being a more expensive option than building completely new, saved the small back yard from being fully overtaken. The plan of this unit is very simple, and we used a slim palette of finishes; both moves make it seem larger than it is. White walls and cabinets are punctuated by black stained wood doors and windows, and vertical grain Douglas Fir was used for window sills, shelving, and wall base. We used a mixture of the clients’ vintage door hardware and kitchen pulls with some new fixtures for the build-out to make it somewhat eclectic and personal. Photographer: Matt Swain Photography