THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

Our clients built their Manhattan dream house years ago, but a couple of decades in, the yellow and green palette seemed stale. We brightened the home with new paint and countertops, white oak flooring and updated carpet, custom fixtures and furniture, and new finishes, window treatments, and accessories. For enhanced functionality, we added built-in storage throughout, reupholstered existing furniture and the breakfast nook in performance fabric, and created a custom dining table that seats a dozen. To keep the dining room coastal and informal, we paired plush head chairs with rattan-backed side chairs and accented with sea-foam and sandy-hued floor and window coverings. The addition of a murphy bed, as well as shelving and file storage, made the office more suited to their growing family’s needs. In the second office, a standing desk, as well as a customized craft desk with built-ins for specific supplies, transformed the area into a completely personalized and effective space. New furniture and a ceiling-length fireplace facade of soft ivory and gray stone transformed the family room into a cozy and welcoming retreat. The overall effect is a home that feels spacious, beachy, and comfortable.

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.

This shingle style cottage was a complete renovation, enhancing its already charming attributes with new, modern amenities. Renovations included enclosing an existing sunroom, new windows and new roof dormers to gain access to a walk-out roof deck.

This large expanse of lawn needed a major make over. Designer added many color full water wise ornamental grasses, shrubs and perennials. Took out 85% of existing lawn and added a new patio, steps, garden with grow boxes and strategic screens too. Designed for maximum enjoyment and preserving/enhancing their views while saving much water and maintenance. Rick Laughlin, APLD

KITCHEN REFRESH project recently completed in Highland Park - To keep costs down our designers retained the existing perimeter cabinets, sprayed and modified them, replaced the island and pantry cabinetry to enhance functionality & storage, installed new fixtures, finishes and countertops to completely transform this once dated kitchen.

KITCHEN REFRESH project recently completed in Highland Park - To keep costs down our designers retained the existing perimeter cabinets, sprayed and modified them, replaced the island and pantry cabinetry to enhance functionality & storage, installed new fixtures, finishes and countertops to completely transform this once dated kitchen.

Poured concrete steppers allow for a journey through the garden space. Here an existing Japanese Maple was enhanced with plants to add a variety of textures and greenery with seasonal bloom. Plants include Philodendron 'Xanadu', Polystichum munitum Western Swordfern, Abutilon Flowering Maple and Carex pansa Meadow Sedge.

AFTER -- New Quartz Countertops in Staron "Mirama Bronze" enhance the wood tone & hardware of the existing Cabinetry. It is a dramatic upgrade!
Example of a large classic l-shaped porcelain tile and beige floor open concept kitchen design with a farmhouse sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, brown backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Transforming this small bathroom into a wheelchair accessible retreat was no easy task. Incorporating unattractive grab bars and making them look seamless was the goal. A floating vanity / countertop allows for roll up accessibility and the live edge of the granite countertops make if feel luxurious. Double sinks for his and hers sides plus medicine cabinet storage helped for this minimal feel of neutrals and breathability. The barn door opens for wheelchair movement but can be closed for the perfect amount of privacy.

Working within the footprint of the existing house and a new, 3 by 11 foot addition, the scope of this project called for enhanced use of the existing kitchen space and better views to the heavily landscaped and terraced rear yard. In response, numerous operable windows and doors wrap around three sides of the design, allowing the exterior landscaping and renovated deck to be more a part of the interior. A 9'-6" ceiling height helps define the kitchen area and provides enhanced views to an existing gazebo via the addition's high windows. With views to the exterior as a goal, most storage cabinets have been relocated to an interior wall. Glass doors and cabinet-mounted display lights accent the floor-to-ceiling pantry unit. A Rain Forest Green granite countertop is complemented by cork floor tiles, soothing glass mosaics and a rich paint palette. The adjacent dining area's charcoal grey slate pavers provide superior functionality and have been outfitted with a radiant heat floor system.

David Kopfmann, of Yardscapes, redesigned this existing pool, by adding a raised concrete spa at the far end with a water feature. To enhance the natural feel and shape of the pool he added boulder outcroppings, along with a bluestone patio, and plantings.

KITCHEN REFRESH project recently completed in Highland Park - To keep costs down our designers retained the existing perimeter cabinets, sprayed and modified them, replaced the island and pantry cabinetry to enhance functionality & storage, installed new fixtures, finishes and countertops to completely transform this once dated kitchen.

Custom built deck and patio cover with beaded pine plywood ceiling painted white. Deck is a composite Trex Enhanced in Clam Shell color.
Inspiration for a mid-sized modern back porch remodel in Houston with decking and a roof extension

This large expanse of lawn needed a major make over. Designer added many color full water wise ornamental grasses, shrubs and perennials. Took out 85% of existing lawn and added a new patio, steps, garden with grow boxes and strategic screens too. Designed for maximum enjoyment and preserving/enhancing their views while saving much water and maintenance. Rick Laughlin, APLD

This shingle style cottage was a complete renovation, enhancing its already charming attributes with new, modern amenities. Renovations included enclosing an existing sunroom, new windows and new roof dormers to gain access to a walk-out roof deck.

KITCHEN REFRESH project recently completed in Highland Park - To keep costs down our designers retained the existing perimeter cabinets, sprayed and modified them, replaced the island and pantry cabinetry to enhance functionality & storage, installed new fixtures, finishes and countertops to completely transform this once dated kitchen.

The concept behind this beautiful traditional kitchen renovation was to enhance existing characteristics of the room. The great natural light, lofted ceiling to the left of the kitchen, creating a light, airy atmosphere. We felt keeping the palette light and clean in terms of cabinetry and backsplash enhanced the warmth of the hardwood flooring. The style is traditional but timeless. Details like door style, the detailing on the island legs, crown molding, and decorative accents like corbels are what give this beautiful kitchen it’s charm. From each vantage point there is a focal area, like the undermount sink anchored by the perimeter windows and upper cabinetry, the feature area in the backsplash above the cook-top and below the custom hood, and the stunning kitchen island with extended countertop for additional seating.

This large expanse of lawn needed a major make over. Designer added many color full water wise ornamental grasses, shrubs and perennials. Took out 85% of existing lawn and added a new patio, steps, garden with grow boxes and strategic screens too. Designed for maximum enjoyment and preserving/enhancing their views while saving much water and maintenance. Rick Laughlin, APLD