This project involved the complete renovation of one of the client's bathrooms to create a luxurious, elegant and modern space. The focal point of the bathroom is the gorgeous shower area which features white wavy tiles that create a beautiful wave-like pattern on the walls. A sleek niche in the shower is accented with pebble tiles, adding a touch of texture and visual interest to the space. The linear drain and gray floor tiles give the shower an ultra-modern feel. The double sink vanity is equally impressive, with a light gray finish that complements the shower tiles perfectly. The gray and white subway tiles surrounding the vanity area create a classic and timeless look. The very sleek light floor tile used throughout the bathroom brings the whole space together, adding to the modern and sophisticated feel. The "Wave of Elegance" bathroom renovation project demonstrates our commitment to providing high-quality workmanship and outstanding design. The end result was a beautiful bathroom that exceeded the client's expectations and will be enjoyed for many years to come.

This HouseHome renovation was a full down-to-the-studs transformation that brought a dated 1970s home into modern luxury living. We raised ceilings, restructured layouts, and redesigned every space with a fresh, contemporary perspective. The kitchen was completely reinvented—elevated from its original condition to a sleek, sophisticated space with improved flow, modern finishes, and a bright, open feel ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The bathroom received an equally dramatic redesign, anchored by a bold Monstera feature wall that adds artistic depth. To balance the small footprint, we paired white walls, black penny tile flooring, and warm brass accents, creating a fresh yet timeless, ultra-contemporary look that feels both airy and dramatic. Throughout the dining areas, we enhanced natural light and architectural volume, introducing refined textures, modern furnishings, and a cohesive palette that ties the entire home together. The result is a fully reimagined residence—stylish, expressive, and effortlessly modern—showcasing HouseHome’s signature approach to luxury renovation and contemporary interior design.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

About this Project: The home remodeling included a kitchen renovation, second floor space reconfigurations, and first floor addition. The purpose was to expand the existing kitchen and create a casual atmosphere by eliminating the formal appearance and unify the kitchen and family room. The homeowners were looking for a traditional kitchen that could be used for dining, entertaining, doing homework while providing ample storage space and a workstation area for bill paying. Demolition was necessary of the existing kitchen and partial exterior of the back of the house and excavation for the addition. The scope of work included new painted kitchen cabinetry and dramatic Cambria stone countertops, new tigerwood exotic hardwood flooring throughout the first floor, new recessed, hanging & under cabinet lighting, and painting of the first floor. The wall paint ushers in a vibrant yet relaxing feeling to the home. Painting existing trim and moldings throughout the first floor refreshes & updates the home. The hardwood flooring flows from the front door to the back door of the first floor and adds a cozy warmth to the home. The finished result is a stunning, warm, spacious kitchen for family and friends to gather. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Testmonial: "I wanted to let you know once again how thrilled we are with the work J. Francis Company recently completed on our home. When we purchased the house we were not convinced that it could become our "home". However after all the work has now been completed we both easily refer to it as our "Home" and not just a house. Your entire team truly made the project - which is never easy - almost enjoyable (or at least as enjoyable a project can be while living without a kitchen!)! Not only was J. Francis extremely professional with respect to the actual construction (JK was absolutely fantastic!!) and the selection of finishes, but they also provided design ideas which we never envisioned. For example the concept of increasing the size of one of our son's bedrooms by taking space from our other son's bedroom was ingenious and in turn it created two equally sized bedrooms which are loved by each of our boys! All told, I would strongly recommend J. Francis to anyone looking for construction needs (in fact I have already made such a recommendation!)." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Photography © Steven Dietz

CLIENT ISSUES/PROBLEMS o English style garden requiring scaling back of plants and hedges o relocation of plants to maintain equality of colour throughout garden and throughout the seasons MOMENTOUS APPROACH o 3 years of maintenance to-date, gardens are constantly growing, so require on-going work o seasonal planters and annual planting every year o weekly maintenance for general gardening, large tree and hedge pruning, relocation of plants, addition of soil to keep beds healthy and provide nutrients RESULTS o Year round seasonal colour throughout the garden o Complimentary-English-style garden with abundance of perennials o Balance in size of shrubs and bushes to create clean, well-maintained look

This living room remodel in Raleigh NC by Lavish transforms a dated fireplace wall into a refined, timeless focal point with custom built-ins and a natural stone surround. Our clients wanted to elevate the heart of their living room — trading a builder-grade mantel and pink-toned walls for something warm, elegant, and full of character. Lavish reworked the fireplace with a cast-stone surround and marble tile, then flanked it with custom cabinetry and floating oak shelves for display and storage. Layered brass picture lights, an equestrian oil painting, aged-brass accents, and soft neutral upholstery give the space a collected, gallery-like feel. The result is a comfortable, sophisticated room that works equally well for quiet evenings and entertaining. Lavish designs and remodels living spaces across the Triangle and the North Carolina coast, from Raleigh to Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington. Interested in a similar project? Click "Contact Me" and tell us about your space.

This transitional office design blends clean-lined sophistication with warm, moody character. Our clients wanted a space that exuded professionalism with a personal edge—equal parts executive function and whisky-bar ambiance. The result is a refined office with tailored details, curated materials, and an unmistakable sense of style. A custom wall of built-in wood cabinetry anchors the space, framed by a rich charcoal stone backsplash and enhanced with integrated LED cabinetry lighting that casts a subtle, dramatic glow. These modern lighting elements highlight the open shelving and glass-paneled displays, giving this functional wall the presence of a luxe gallery installation. The sleek Polanco executive desk—handcrafted from oyster-cut salvaged Mexican ash and sustainably harvested European ash burl—is a showpiece in its own right, its sculptural form and deep wood grain balancing the room’s structured lines. The tufted black leather Dylan Sofa introduces softness and texture, while gold accents and a fur throw infuse the space with layered warmth. Overhead, the Bennet Chandelier provides a statement moment with organic movement and just the right touch of glamour. From the high-contrast color palette of black, brown, and gold to the refined panel molding and bold art pieces, every element was selected to support both productivity and personal expression. The space feels as inviting as it is impressive—perfect for focused workdays, high-stakes calls, or simply enjoying a well-earned break in timeless comfort.

This side of the island houses the Sub Zero undercounter freezer. I wanted the face to look like six equal sized drawers, which left the integrated drawer fronts for the freezer overlapping the side panel for the dishwasher (see next photo). We custom made all of the kitchen cabinetry and shelving. The kitchen was a small area so maximizing usable space with function and design was crucial. The island was our biggest challenge. It needed to house several appliances of different size, a farmhouse sink and be able to have function from all 4 sides and still have room for seating space on the backside. The sink side has the farmhouse sink centered with storage drawers to the right that feature wood organizers and a double middle drawer to help hold all the small utensils and still maintain the 3 drawer look from the front view that matches the integrated dishwasher to the left. The right side contains both the integrated soft close trash unit and an icemaker with a third false panel door to maintain the size balance for all three. The back of the island has storage tucked up under the seating space. The quartz countertop meets up against the maple butcher block to create a stunning island top. All in all the end result of this kitchen is a beautiful space with wonderful function. Photos: Kimball Ungerman

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

A kitchen designed around family, entertaining—and the view. ? For this Redondo Beach renovation, every cabinet, finish, and functional zone was planned with intention. The goal was to create a light, welcoming kitchen that reflected its coastal setting without feeling overly themed. Warm walnut cabinetry grounds the space, while crisp white uppers and a soft blue island keep the palette fresh and airy. Honed quartz surfaces, a subtly textured backsplash, brushed brass hardware, and woven counter stools introduce warmth, dimension, and relaxed coastal character. The oversized island offers generous room for food preparation, casual dining, and gathering with a full house. A dedicated beverage center and accessible dish storage allow family and guests to help themselves without interrupting the primary cooking zone. Thoughtfully organized custom cabinetry maximizes storage while maintaining an open, uncluttered feel. We also reworked the architecture so the kitchen feels cohesive with the rest of the home rather than like a later addition. The result is a refined yet approachable space—equally suited to quiet mornings, family dinners, and effortless entertaining. Which detail catches your eye first: the blue island, warm walnut cabinetry, or beverage center?

Designed to embrace natural light and dramatic architectural details, this contemporary living room balances comfort with understated luxury. Soaring windows frame the space while soft neutral upholstery is paired with rich navy accent chairs for timeless contrast. Custom drapery, crisp wall molding, and layered textures add depth without overwhelming the room, while the grand piano and oversized artwork create elegant focal points. The result is a bright, sophisticated gathering space that feels equally suited for everyday living and entertaining.

This full remodel of a New York City condo was tailored for a high-achieving, well-traveled client who wanted their home to reflect not just where they’ve been—but where they’re going. Located in a striking modern building in Long Island City, the design layers sophisticated finishes, meaningful artifacts, and thoughtful lighting to capture the energy of the city and the soul of the client. The result? A personal sanctuary that feels collected, not decorated—equal parts worldly and grounded.

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.

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.

Don't have the room for the true "Circular" freestanding staircase you've been dreaming about? Maybe an Ellipse is what you need to put gorgeous lines in a tight space. This African Mahogany beauty found its home in Bountiful, Utah. The hand forged balusters from Italy were supplied by our good friends at House of Forgings. Where possible we try to avoid pitch changes which, while you can soften them with a nice carved fitting, cause a kink in the handrail and stringer. We love things to just flow. This last picture shows our design in which we ensured each of the maroon lines (inside stringer, walk line, & outside stringer) were divided in equal "run" segments. This results in no kinks and produces another wonderful side effect of bowing treads which as they descend down evolve from concave to convex and give the staircase a very compelling and organic feel.

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 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.