Set on beautiful Sanibel Island, overlooking the lagoon, our client’s home was situated in a picture-perfect location. Unfortunately, however, they couldn’t say the same about their kitchen—it was far from picture-perfect. The homeowners were keen to make the kitchen area more rich and tropical, as well as functional and user-friendly. After approaching Progressive Design Build with their renovation needs, they quickly moved into the design phase—brainstorming design ideas with Progressive’s certified kitchen and bath designer. Enamored by Progressive’s 3-Step Design/Build process, the client was able to review their design choices and budget items well before construction began. Working within a comfortable budget, the homeowners were equally impressed by how seamless it was to pick and choose their design options—narrowing their selections and settling on a design style that suited their needs. The end result was a gorgeous Tommy Bahama-style scheme that included Lyptus wood cabinets with rattan and louver door combinations. The refrigerator was disguised using custom cabinet appliance panels, effectively integrating it with the cabinetry wall for a unified look. The new space included a coffee bar, a window seat overlooking the lagoon, new lighting and porcelain tile flooring throughout the home. A full Viking appliance package finished off the look to this Island kitchen jewel.

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but the dining room is where the family gathers to enjoy special occasions, create and pass on traditions, and savour each other’s company free from distractions. The family behind this particular dining room enjoys doing just that. When they are not traveling the world, Matthew and Anna (names changed) love to cook meals at home with their teenage daughter, entertain family and friends, and live amongst their cherished travel souvenirs and heirlooms. Their dining room, however, was far from the perfect backdrop for these experiences. Before: Dining Room: When Matthew and Anna contacted us, they imagined a space that would comfortably seat 8 to 10 people and incorporate their beautiful inherited dining table and sideboard in a fresh, modern way. Above all, they wanted a dining room that they would feel proud to share. They worked with us to design, lightly renovate, and furnish their dining room and adjacent living space. Now, the room is nothing short of inviting and elevated. Classic Yet Contemporary Dining Room: Viewed from the living area, the dining room is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Matthew and Anna wanted dark blue for the walls, and we couldn’t have been happier to find the perfect shade for them. By leaning darker, this rich blue creates the perception of depth, making the room feel enticing, comfortable and secluded. The previous built-ins were underwhelming and lacked function, so we designed wider, taller, double sided cabinets that integrated the existing bulk-head, and then accessorized the shelves with the family’s travel finds, books, and decor. Topping these units with brass art lights not only blends contemporary and traditional styles, it also draws attention to the dining table’s modern show-stopping chandelier. You can’t miss it. Inside the dining room, the effect is equally impressive: enveloping yet spacious, warm yet cool, classic yet contemporary. We incorporated their heirloom pieces seamlessly into the design thanks to the 1:2 ratio. For every traditional piece, we introduced two more modern or contemporary pieces — clean lines, subtle curves, and lustrous brass hardware. The result is a collected yet updated look. In any room with dark walls, lighting is of the utmost importance. We placed a mirror adjacent to the window to reflect natural light throughout the room, and we kept the trim and ceiling white for brightness. To provide maximum versatility, we provided multiple light sources that can be adjusted to create different levels of light to suit any mood or occasion. These include: pot lights and a chandelier on dimmers, a sculptural trilight lamp on the sideboard, and art lights on the bookcases and above important art pieces. The built-ins have another surprise waiting inside this special dining room: Double-sided built-ins: dining room shelving and living room shelving. Rather than keep them white like we did in the living room, we painted the back wall of the book cases the same dark blue as the walls in the rest of the room. This reduces the contrast with the surrounding walls and emphasizes the white outline of the cabinets. We also love the dark blue walls’ role as a beautiful backdrop for this family’s treasures. The brass accessories and hand-painted vases and bowls feel like part of the experience. Of course, what is beauty without function? It may not look like it, but the base storage is only accessible from the dining room side. The units include deep cabinets for storing serving ware, as well as another delightful surprise: silverware drawers lined in luxurious navy velvet! Lastly, we designed this beautiful nook for their heirloom sideboard. From afar, the wall looks as if it has texture and perhaps a touch of shine. Up close, you will notice that it is actually navy blue wallpaper with tiny golden dots. This unique touch accentuates the brass in the room touches throughout the space.. The room feels curated, contemporary, and full of character. Words of Praise: Anna and Matthew were thrilled with their new dining room and with the design process itself, which is always the highest compliment. They said: “Working with Lori and her team at Simply Home Decorating was a great experience. The design they came up with was both beautiful and practical for our family. Renovations can be stressful but working with Simply Home made the process much more pleasant. “Simply Home's project management and their longstanding relationships with reliable trades meant we could relax, knowing that everything was taken care of. If an issue arose, the entire Simply Home team was quick to address it. They were excellent at communicating with us—we never felt like we didn't know what was going on. We would highly recommend working with Simply Home Decorating.” Thank you, Matthew and Anna! We are honoured to have been part of your journey and wish your family many happy memories in these new spaces. Now, is it your turn? Are you ready to uncover the hidden potential in your home? If so, contact us here to start the conversation or download my guide Uncovering the Hidden Potential in Your Home below to learn more about what we can do for you.

Bold Pattern, Warm Soul — Whole-Home Interior Design & Renovation | Raleigh, NC This project is proof that a home can have a strong point of view and still feel completely livable. The homeowners wanted personality — spaces that felt collected, intentional, and a little unexpected. The result is a whole-home transformation where every room tells part of the same cohesive story. The kitchen serves as the heart of it all. Sage green cabinetry with raised panel detailing wraps the entire space, while a bold large-scale botanical wallpaper in warm cream, brown, and black makes an unforgettable statement. The pattern doesn't stop at the kitchen walls — it carries through the built-in bar area and connects to the living room, creating a visual thread that ties the main floor together. White Calacatta-style quartz countertops and backsplash, matte black hardware, mercury glass pendants, and a built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator with custom cabinet surround complete the kitchen's layered look. A built-in window seat breakfast nook with sage cushions adds charm and function in equal measure. The living room anchors the home with drama and warmth. A floor-to-ceiling walnut wood slat accent wall frames the fireplace and soars to the two-story ceiling, flanked by white built-in bookshelves lined with the same botanical wallpaper. The furniture palette — white linen sofa, cognac leather mid-century chairs, and a natural wood coffee table — keeps the space grounded and inviting against the bold backdrop. The nursery is a room unto itself: dusty blue walls and ceiling meet a framed safari toile accent wall, a vintage-inspired black iron crib, and a dramatic black woven drum pendant. Classic and cool with just the right amount of edge. A moody bonus room doubles as a home theater, with dark walls, wood slat paneling, and plush oversized sofas tucked under a sloped ceiling. The primary bathroom rounds out the project with a floor-to-ceiling charcoal shaker vanity, matte black fixtures, and white quartz — sleek, modern, and confident. Every room was designed and executed by a single team — from concept to completion.

What had once been a purely utilitarian bathroom — all bland white fixtures and little sense of personality — became an opportunity to embrace the carefree spirit of a second home by the Pacific. Rather than treating the space with the restraint of a primary residence, we leaned into something more playful and transportive, drawing from the colors and textures of the coastline just beyond the windows. A wallcovering patterned with oversized seashells in soft blue and white wraps the room like a seaside interpretation of a French toile, giving the space a sense of whimsy without losing its sophistication. The palette throughout echoes sea glass, salt air, and sun-faded driftwood, creating a room that feels equal parts breezy retreat and quiet escape. At the center of the design, a light wood vanity with fluted doors introduces warmth and subtle texture, balancing the cool tones that flow through the room. Inside the shower, a back wall of pale blue fan tile unfurls like scales or waves, catching the light with a softness that feels almost aquatic. Overhead, a sculptural light fixture woven from natural fibers brings an unexpected touch of humor and movement — reminiscent of the swaying fringe of a hula dancer’s grass skirt. The result is a bathroom that no longer feels anonymous or obligatory, but instead captures the relaxed, slightly nostalgic joy of life lived near the ocean. Photos: Bernardo Grijalva

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

This family room redesign creates a warm, functional retreat perfectly tailored for a family of four. Thoughtfully selected new furnishings are upholstered in durable, family- and pet-friendly performance fabrics that balance comfort with everyday practicality. A statement letter cocktail ottoman anchors the space, offering both relaxed seating and a playful design moment. Commissioned artwork brings a personal, curated feel, while custom throw pillows layer in color, texture, and comfort. The result is a polished yet inviting room designed for real life—equally suited for family movie nights, casual entertaining, and quiet moments at home.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

From the street, it’s an impeccably designed English manor. Once inside, the best of that same storied architecture seamlessly meshes with modernism. This blend of styles was exactly the vibe three-decades-running Houston homebuilder Chris Sims, founder and CEO of Sims Luxury Builders, wanted to convey with the $5.2 million show-home in Houston’s coveted Tanglewood neighborhood. “Our goal was to uniquely combine classic and Old World with clean and modern in both the architectural design as well as the interior finishes,” Chris says. Their aesthetic inspiration is clearly evident in the 8,000-square-foot showcase home’s luxurious gourmet kitchen. It is an exercise in grey and white—and texture. To achieve their vision, the Sims turned to Cantoni. “We had a wonderful experience working with Cantoni several years ago on a client’s home, and were pleased to repeat that success on this project,” Chris says. Cantoni designer Amy McFall, who was tasked with designing the kitchen, promptly took to the home’s beauty. Situated on a half-acre corner lot with majestic oak trees, it boasts simplistic and elegant interiors that allow the detailed architecture to shine. The kitchen opens directly to the family room, which holds a brick wall, beamed ceilings, and a light-and-bright stone fireplace. The generous space overlooks the outdoor pool. With such a large area to work with, “we needed to give the kitchen its own, intimate feel,” Amy says. To that end, Amy integrated dark grey, high-gloss lacquer cabinetry from our Atelier Collection. by Aster Cucine with dark grey oak cabinetry, mixing finishes throughout to add depth and texture. Edginess came by way of custom, heavily veined Calacatta Viola marble on both the countertops and backsplash. The Sims team, meanwhile, insured the layout lent itself to minimalism. “With the inclusion of the scullery and butler’s pantry in the design, we were able to minimize the storage needed in the kitchen itself,” Chris says. “This allowed for the clean, minimalist cabinetry, giving us the creative freedom to go darker with the cabinet color and really make a bold statement in the home.” It was exactly the look they wanted—textural and interesting. “The juxtaposition of ultra-modern kitchen cabinetry and steel windows set against the textures of the wood floors, interior brick, and trim detailing throughout the downstairs provided a fresh take on blending classic and modern,” Chris says. “We’re thrilled with the result—it is showstopping.” They were equally thrilled with the design process. “Amy was incredibly responsive, helpful and knowledgeable,” Chris says. “It was a pleasure working with her and the entire Cantoni team.” Check out the kitchen featured in Modern Luxury Interiors Texas’ annual “Ode to Texas Real Estate” here.

While the bones of this house were absolutely modern, past renovations were feeling dated and needed a refresh. Bathrooms, living, kitchen and bedrooms all received the keen eye of a talented designer and equally artful homeowner. The result a beautiful modern with tons of warmth and texture throughout.

Bold Gray Master Bath Remodel — Fremont, CA | 2018 | $25,000 This dramatic master bathroom remodel in Fremont is a masterclass in monochromatic design done right. Working within a sophisticated gray palette from light to near-charcoal, every element was chosen to create a cohesive, high-end result that feels both bold and calming. The walk-in shower is a showstopper. Floor-to-ceiling large-format gray porcelain tiles with a subtle linear texture clad all three walls, creating a seamless, enveloping effect. A square mosaic-lined recessed niche adds a refined storage detail that blends naturally into the design. The shower floor features a small-format gray mosaic tile that provides texture and slip resistance while staying perfectly on-palette. A wall-mounted square rain showerhead on an extended arm, paired with a handheld unit on a sleek chrome slide bar, delivers a premium shower experience. The concealed thermostatic valve with square trim keeps the fixture wall clean and architectural. Natural light pours in through a skylight directly above the shower, making the gray tile shimmer and the entire space feel open and airy — a true design asset that elevates the whole room. One of the most distinctive features of this remodel is the full-height sliding barn door clad in dark charcoal large-format tile — an unexpected and sophisticated detail that separates the shower area while doubling as a dramatic design statement. The industrial-style stainless hardware complements the chrome fixtures throughout. The vanity area is equally refined. A large floating dark wood-grain cabinet — nearly charcoal in finish — supports a wide white integrated double-sink countertop with two square-profile chrome vessel-style faucets. Flanking vertical strip lights frame a full-width mirror, providing excellent illumination. The main bathroom floor is finished in large-format light gray tile, creating a clean contrast to the darker elements and keeping the overall space feeling bright and open. A heated towel rail adds a luxurious finishing touch. KEY FEATURES: Large-format gray linear-texture shower wall tile Skylight above shower Square rain showerhead + handheld combo Concealed thermostatic shower valve Gray mosaic shower floor Recessed mosaic-lined shower niche Full-height tile-clad sliding barn door Floating dark wood-grain double vanity White integrated double sink countertop Square chrome faucets Vertical strip vanity lights Full-width vanity mirror Heated towel rail Large-format light gray bathroom floor tile

Charcoal siding, with its tremendous range and adaptability, looks equally in the outdoors when coupled with materials that are fascinated by the landscape. The exterior is exquisite from Fiber Cement Lap Siding and Fiber Cement Shingle Siding which is complemented with white door trims and frieze board. The appeal of this charcoal grey siding as an exterior tint is its flexibility and versatility. Subtle changes in tone and surrounding frame may result in a stunning array of home designs!

While the bones of this house were absolutely modern, past renovations were feeling dated and needed a refresh. Bathrooms, living, kitchen and bedrooms all received the keen eye of a talented designer and equally artful homeowner. The result a beautiful modern with tons of warmth and texture throughout.

This design captures the spirit of eclectic modernity—boldly combining texture, form, and soulful detail. It embraces both clean contemporary lines and layered, curated elements, resulting in a space that feels thoughtfully collected, not predictable. Textural richness is at the forefront—soft upholstery pairs with sleek surfaces, and mixed finishes (polished metals, matte woods, and plush textiles) create a tactile and visual dialogue. The contrast between refined and cozy elements builds warmth and sophistication. The layout balances openness with intimacy. Thoughtfully placed furniture and visual rhythms guide movement through the space, allowing each area to feel both connected and distinct. Lighting is composed with subtlety and intention—ambient fixtures and layered lighting gently sculpt the environment. Shadows and highlights enhance the ambiance without overpowering the architectural interplay. This space tells a story of modern living infused with personality. It’s dynamic yet grounded—inviting curiosity, conversation, and comfort in equal measure.

Set on beautiful Sanibel Island, overlooking the lagoon, our client’s home was situated in a picture-perfect location. Unfortunately, however, they couldn’t say the same about their kitchen—it was far from picture-perfect. The homeowners were keen to make the kitchen area more rich and tropical, as well as functional and user-friendly. After approaching Progressive Design Build with their renovation needs, they quickly moved into the design phase—brainstorming design ideas with Progressive’s certified kitchen and bath designer. Enamored by Progressive’s 3-Step Design/Build process, the client was able to review their design choices and budget items well before construction began. Working within a comfortable budget, the homeowners were equally impressed by how seamless it was to pick and choose their design options—narrowing their selections and settling on a design style that suited their needs. The end result was a gorgeous Tommy Bahama-style scheme that included Lyptus wood cabinets with rattan and louver door combinations. The refrigerator was disguised using custom cabinet appliance panels, effectively integrating it with the cabinetry wall for a unified look. The new space included a coffee bar, a window seat overlooking the lagoon, new lighting and porcelain tile flooring throughout the home. A full Viking appliance package finished off the look to this Island kitchen jewel.

When our clients set out to reimagine the kitchen in their Los Gatos home, they dreamed of a space that honored timeless design while embracing modern functionality. The result is Modern Heritage—a sun-drenched kitchen that feels equal parts classic and contemporary. Crisp white cabinetry provides a bright, clean foundation, while a richly toned walnut island anchors the room like a piece of bespoke furniture. The natural zellige tile backsplash and striking marble surfaces add layers of texture and quiet luxury. With views to a park-like backyard and natural light streaming in, this kitchen is as beautiful as it is livable—elevated everyday living at its finest. Notable materials include: CABINETRY BY RUTT Handcrafted Cabinetry / Zellige Tile Backsplash - Cle Zellige Moroccan Tile / Countertops - IRG, Calacatta Brasil 3/4" Polished / Galley Workstation / Brass and Crystal Sconces from Restoration Hardware

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

A dedicated countertop adjacent to the stacked washer and dryer provides an essential landing area for laundry baskets, simplifying sorting, folding, and transferring clothes while improving the room's overall workflow. This thoughtfully planned workspace enhances everyday functionality and demonstrates how intentional space planning elevates even the most practical household tasks. To complement the existing gray ceramic flooring and black stainless steel washer and dryer, aged pewter cabinet hardware was selected for its timeless appeal and understated sophistication. The warm metallic finish adds depth and refinement while creating a cohesive material palette that balances contemporary appliances with classic detailing. Durability and ease of maintenance were equally important design considerations. The countertop material was extended seamlessly up the wall to create a matching backsplash, resulting in a clean, uninterrupted surface that is both elegant and highly practical. This integrated approach protects the walls from everyday wear, simplifies cleaning, and reinforces the tailored, custom aesthetic that defines a thoughtfully designed luxury laundry room.

Design: When our client and her daughter purchased this Boulder home on Bluff Street, they were still living on the East Coast, planning a major life transition from afar. The home had great bones and a layout that largely worked for them, but the finishes didn’t reflect their style, and the kitchen felt tight and underutilized. They wanted this new house to feel like home the moment they arrived in Colorado. From the beginning, collaboration was key. As part of this Boulder home remodel, we coordinated closely around their travel schedule, maximizing every visit to Boulder so they could see materials, review selections, and experience the design decisions in person. Those in-person moments helped build clarity and momentum, ensuring the home felt personal and intentional. While the overall spatial layout remained intact, we made strategic changes where it mattered most. The kitchen was thoughtfully reconfigured, and by relocating the washer and dryer upstairs, we unlocked valuable square footage. That shift allowed us to introduce a dedicated pantry and create a more functional, open kitchen designed for gathering. Equally important was their love of outdoor living. We approached the deck and patio areas not as afterthoughts, but as extensions of the interior: spaces meant to be lived in daily. Build: The change was both subtle and significant. Reworking the kitchen layout solved the functional challenges, creating better flow, more storage, and a sense of ease in the heart of the home. The added pantry brought organization and breathing room, while the updated finishes throughout the interior aligned the space with the client’s aesthetic: warm, welcoming, and refined. To strengthen the connection between indoors and outdoors, we expanded windows and installed large sliding glass doors. Natural light now pours into the main living areas, and the transition to the deck feels seamless. Outside, the patio and deck were optimized for true Colorado living, ideal for morning coffee, evening dinners, and time spent with family under Boulder’s open skies. The result is a thoughtfully executed Boulder home remodel that balances function and feeling. And while this project is rooted in Boulder, our experience allows us to bring the same level of collaboration and craftsmanship to homeowners across the Front Range. This isn’t just a refreshed house; it’s a home designed for a new chapter.

Set on beautiful Sanibel Island, overlooking the lagoon, our client’s home was situated in a picture-perfect location. Unfortunately, however, they couldn’t say the same about their kitchen—it was far from picture-perfect. The homeowners were keen to make the kitchen area more rich and tropical, as well as functional and user-friendly. After approaching Progressive Design Build with their renovation needs, they quickly moved into the design phase—brainstorming design ideas with Progressive’s certified kitchen and bath designer. Enamored by Progressive’s 3-Step Design/Build process, the client was able to review their design choices and budget items well before construction began. Working within a comfortable budget, the homeowners were equally impressed by how seamless it was to pick and choose their design options—narrowing their selections and settling on a design style that suited their needs. The end result was a gorgeous Tommy Bahama-style scheme that included Lyptus wood cabinets with rattan and louver door combinations. The refrigerator was disguised using custom cabinet appliance panels, effectively integrating it with the cabinetry wall for a unified look. The new space included a coffee bar, a window seat overlooking the lagoon, new lighting and porcelain tile flooring throughout the home. A full Viking appliance package finished off the look to this Island kitchen jewel.