Search results for "Essential step" in Home Design Ideas

After tearing down this home's existing addition, we poured a new foundation but kept the original fireplace. We perfectly aligned the cupola on top of the roof, with the upper story windows and those with the lower windows, giving the addition a clean and crisp look. Using granite from Chester County, mica schist stone and hardy plank siding on the exterior walls helped the addition to blend in seamlessly with the original house. We added a new flagstone patio and paver walkway to complete the area. Inside the addition there is a new kitchen great room, a laundry room and a sitting room.
Inside, we customized each new space by paying close attention to the little details. Reclaimed wood for the mantle and shelving, sleek and subtle lighting under the reclaimed shelves, unique wall and floor tile, recessed outlets in the island, walnut trim on the hood, paneled appliances, and repeating materials in a symmetrical way work together to give the interior a sophisticated yet comfortable feel.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Homeowner Services of Michigan (HSM) is excited to share the details of a new 16' x 22' family room expansion in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This project reflects our dedication to meeting our clients' specific needs.
Our clients approached us needing more space for their growing family and wanted a seamless integration with their existing home. After thorough consultations, we developed a plan to bring their vision to life.
The project began with careful architectural planning. We worked with a local architect to create detailed plans and secured all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Site preparation involved demolishing an existing carport, grading, and excavation to prepare the building pad for the new foundation. This step was essential to ensure a stable base for the construction.
Our team then focused on structural framing, tying the new addition to the existing home. We ensured that the new structure matched the current architectural style for a seamless blend. The addition was then roofed and sheathed to provide a sturdy and weatherproof exterior.
Next, we addressed the electrical work, installing new circuits for lighting, HVAC, and receptacles, and adding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to meet safety standards. A licensed journeyman electrician performed the electrical service to ensure high-quality and compliant installations.
Insulation and drywall installation followed. We installed batt insulation to meet or exceed Michigan Energy Code requirements. The interior surfaces were finished with drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, and priming to prepare for painting. Baseboard molding and trim around doors and windows added the finishing touches.
Exterior features were also important. We framed and installed new windows and a front entry door and added a front eyebrow vent feature to match the existing structure. Vinyl siding was installed to complete the exterior, ensuring a cohesive look and enhanced curb appeal.
Throughout the project, we maintained a clean and professional worksite, disposing of debris responsibly and minimizing disruption to the client's daily lives. Our focus was always on delivering quality and ensuring client satisfaction.
This home addition project highlights our commitment to understanding and fulfilling our clients' needs. We are proud to have added valuable space and enhanced the overall functionality and aesthetic of the home.
These folks had a vision, a budget, and a whole lot of patience. We got through this family room remodel during a global pandemic. What great people to work with!

This beautiful traditional kitchen is adorned with exquisite wood cabinets that exude warmth and timeless charm. A focal point of this culinary haven is the open wine rack, inviting you to display your favorite vintages with elegance. The expansive green island commands attention, serving as both a stylish centerpiece and a practical workspace.
This versatile island is equipped with a convenient sink, a discreet dishwasher, and a built-in microwave, offering a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics. Ample storage ensures that your kitchen essentials are neatly tucked away, maintaining the pristine allure of the space.
Adding a contemporary touch, the kitchen is adorned with sleek black hardware and fixtures, creating a harmonious contrast with the rich wood tones. The cohesive integration of black elements ties the entire look together, elevating the traditional design with a modern edge.
Step into a culinary realm where timeless beauty meets modern functionality – this traditional kitchen is a testament to the perfect blend of classic style and contemporary convenience."
Find the right local pro for your project

We gutted and renovated this entire modern Colonial home in Bala Cynwyd, PA. Introduced to the homeowners through the wife’s parents, we updated and expanded the home to create modern, clean spaces for the family. Highlights include converting the attic into completely new third floor bedrooms and a bathroom; a light and bright gray and white kitchen featuring a large island, white quartzite counters and Viking stove and range; a light and airy master bath with a walk-in shower and soaking tub; and a new exercise room in the basement.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

The owners of this colonial-style house wanted to renovate their home to increase space and improve flow. We built a two-story addition that included a dining room and bar on the first floor (off of the family room) and a new master bathroom (creating a master suite).
RUDLOFF Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016 and 2017. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early on in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept, envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission; CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: JMB Photoworks

This chic, modern farmhouse kitchen has reclaimed wood beams and shelves. The huge island is topped with honed black granite, features seating for six, a microwave drawer, a bookshelf for cookbooks, and lots of storage. The white cabinets and white Carrara marble counters provide a sharp contrast to the island's black counter. The stainless steel appliances and sink and the chrome fixtures give the room a polished look.
RUDLOFF Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016 and 2017. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: JMB Photoworks

These two adjoining girls' rooms — a show-stopping nursery and a dreamy toddler bedroom — are among the most enchanting children's spaces imaginable. Each room has its own distinct personality while sharing a thread of botanical wonder, soft femininity, and elevated design that refuses to talk down to its young inhabitants. These are spaces designed not just for children, but with genuine artistry — rooms that will inspire wonder for years to come.
The Nursery
Step into this nursery and feel immediately transported into a secret garden at dusk. The design decision that sets the entire room apart is breathtakingly bold: a large-scale dark floral wallpaper — blooming with oversized peonies, roses, and wildflowers in dusty pink, peach, sage, and cream against a deep slate blue ground — wraps every wall from chair rail to ceiling, creating an immersive, almost painterly environment that feels simultaneously dramatic and deeply soft.
The ceiling is painted a warm, powdery pink that picks up the blush tones within the wallpaper perfectly — a "fifth wall" design moment that makes the room feel like a complete, considered installation rather than a decorated room. The transition from wallpapered walls to pink ceiling at the crown molding line is seamless and intentional, wrapping the baby in a floral garden overhead and all around.
Anchoring the room with genuine design authority is a spectacular gold and crystal chandelier — its circular brass frame hung with vertical crystal rods that catch and scatter light like a garden in rain — elevating the nursery from charming to genuinely luxurious. Beneath it, a natural oak arched spindle crib sits against the wallpapered feature wall, its warm honey wood grain providing organic contrast to the moody floral backdrop. Pink velvet pillows and a soft crib mobile of plush clouds and moons complete the crib vignette with gentle whimsy.
A boucle glider chair and matching stacked ottoman in cream provide the nursing corner, paired with a small brass side table for midnight essentials. A soft blush pink area rug anchors the seating area and echoes the ceiling color. Linen drapery panels in soft ivory frame the windows without competing with the wallpaper, their pinch-pleat heading adding a refined tailoring detail.
The Toddler Bedroom
The connecting bedroom takes the botanical theme in a softer, sunnier direction — all blush pink walls (matching ceiling and walls in the same warm rose tone for a cocooning effect), botanical print drapery in cream with red and green wildflowers, and brass curtain hardware that ties to the nursery's gold palette. A gold spindle crib — the metallic version of the nursery's wooden one — grounds the room with warmth, while a sage green upholstered glider provides a reading corner. A white dresser with brass hardware doubles as a changing table, topped with art prints and a Matisse-inspired framed poster in a gold frame that adds a touch of grown-up gallery sensibility.
Floating acrylic shelves hold a curated collection of board books at child-height — a detail that communicates that this room was designed for a child who will love and use it, not just admire it. A whimsical wicker llama toy basket, an indoor olive tree, and a fluffy white boucle child's armchair complete a room that balances magic with livability.

This beautiful kitchen remodel in Alpine strikes the perfect balance between dark and light. Mixing cabinetry colors is one of the biggest trends we see with kitchen remodeling and this is a perfect example of how impactful the result can be. Matte black custom cabinetry, custom appliance panel covers, and island cabinetry pair beautifully with the custom designed Vent-A-Hood hood and white perimeter cabinetry. This family loves to entertain, so a large kitchen island was essential to the flow of the space. The unique "step up" design allows both seating and food prep/display space and the dark veining of the countertop ties the dark cabinetry in perfectly. The large pendant lights work beautifully with the scale of the space. Matte black Kohler fixtures, Blanco sinks, and Jenn-Air refrigerator and range with custom paneling complete this distinctive look.

Introducing our KYOTO line, where traditional Japanese craftsmanship meets modern living. Elevate your kitchen and living room with our natural real wood furniture, featuring the finest precision, attention to detail, and timeless elegance. With a focus on essential planning principles, KYOTO creates a clear and structured space, using a unique blend of veneer fronts and wooden profiles. Available in oak and walnut, KYOTO seamlessly merges tradition and modernity, bringing a sense of warmth and homeliness to your home. Step into your LEICHT kitchen and experience the comfort and beauty of real wood. Feel connected to nature and secure in your space.

Homeowner Services of Michigan (HSM) is excited to share the details of a new 16' x 22' family room expansion in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This project reflects our dedication to meeting our clients' specific needs.
Our clients approached us needing more space for their growing family and wanted a seamless integration with their existing home. After thorough consultations, we developed a plan to bring their vision to life.
The project began with careful architectural planning. We worked with a local architect to create detailed plans and secured all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Site preparation involved demolishing an existing carport, grading, and excavation to prepare the building pad for the new foundation. This step was essential to ensure a stable base for the construction.
Our team then focused on structural framing, tying the new addition to the existing home. We ensured that the new structure matched the current architectural style for a seamless blend. The addition was then roofed and sheathed to provide a sturdy and weatherproof exterior.
Next, we addressed the electrical work, installing new circuits for lighting, HVAC, and receptacles, and adding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to meet safety standards. A licensed journeyman electrician performed the electrical service to ensure high-quality and compliant installations.
Insulation and drywall installation followed. We installed batt insulation to meet or exceed Michigan Energy Code requirements. The interior surfaces were finished with drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, and priming to prepare for painting. Baseboard molding and trim around doors and windows added the finishing touches.
Exterior features were also important. We framed and installed new windows and a front entry door and added a front eyebrow vent feature to match the existing structure. Vinyl siding was installed to complete the exterior, ensuring a cohesive look and enhanced curb appeal.
Throughout the project, we maintained a clean and professional worksite, disposing of debris responsibly and minimizing disruption to the client's daily lives. Our focus was always on delivering quality and ensuring client satisfaction.
This home addition project highlights our commitment to understanding and fulfilling our clients' needs. We are proud to have added valuable space and enhanced the overall functionality and aesthetic of the home.
These folks had a vision, a budget, and a whole lot of patience. We got through this family room remodel during a global pandemic. What great people to work with!

Homeowner Services of Michigan (HSM) is excited to share the details of a new 16' x 22' family room expansion in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This project reflects our dedication to meeting our clients' specific needs.
Our clients approached us needing more space for their growing family and wanted a seamless integration with their existing home. After thorough consultations, we developed a plan to bring their vision to life.
The project began with careful architectural planning. We worked with a local architect to create detailed plans and secured all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Site preparation involved demolishing an existing carport, grading, and excavation to prepare the building pad for the new foundation. This step was essential to ensure a stable base for the construction.
Our team then focused on structural framing, tying the new addition to the existing home. We ensured that the new structure matched the current architectural style for a seamless blend. The addition was then roofed and sheathed to provide a sturdy and weatherproof exterior.
Next, we addressed the electrical work, installing new circuits for lighting, HVAC, and receptacles, and adding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to meet safety standards. A licensed journeyman electrician performed the electrical service to ensure high-quality and compliant installations.
Insulation and drywall installation followed. We installed batt insulation to meet or exceed Michigan Energy Code requirements. The interior surfaces were finished with drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, and priming to prepare for painting. Baseboard molding and trim around doors and windows added the finishing touches.
Exterior features were also important. We framed and installed new windows and a front entry door and added a front eyebrow vent feature to match the existing structure. Vinyl siding was installed to complete the exterior, ensuring a cohesive look and enhanced curb appeal.
Throughout the project, we maintained a clean and professional worksite, disposing of debris responsibly and minimizing disruption to the client's daily lives. Our focus was always on delivering quality and ensuring client satisfaction.
This home addition project highlights our commitment to understanding and fulfilling our clients' needs. We are proud to have added valuable space and enhanced the overall functionality and aesthetic of the home.
These folks had a vision, a budget, and a whole lot of patience. We got through this family room remodel during a global pandemic. What great people to work with!

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!).
After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family.
The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation.
This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition.
Project Team:
Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge
Chris Bach
Nate Dodge

What a treat it was to work on this 190-year-old colonial home! Since the home is on the Historical Register, we worked with the owners on its preservation by adding historically accurate features and details. The stucco is accented with “Colonial Blue” paint on the trim and doors. The copper roofs on the portico and side entrance and the copper flashing around each chimney add a pop of shine. We also rebuilt the house’s deck, laid the slate patio, and installed the white picket fence.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo credit: Linda McManus
Before photo credit: Kurfiss Sotheby's International Realty

This first floor remodel included the kitchen, powder room, mudroom, laundry room, living room and office. The bright, white kitchen is accented by gray-blue island with seating for four. We removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room to create an open floor plan. A special feature is the custom-made cherry desk and white built in shelving we created in the office. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

An amazing aspect of every garden and landscape is the process by which it grows into maturity, ever-evolving over time. Careful planning, intelligent design and proper maintenance are essential factors in the success and lifespan of any landscape and the plant material that defines it.

With family life and entertaining in mind, we built this 4,000 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 3 full baths and 2 half baths house from the ground up! To fit in with the rest of the neighborhood, we constructed an English Tudor style home, but updated it with a modern, open floor plan on the first floor, bright bedrooms, and large windows throughout the home. What sets this home apart are the high-end architectural details that match the home’s Tudor exterior, such as the historically accurate windows encased in black frames. The stunning craftsman-style staircase is a post and rail system, with painted railings. The first floor was designed with entertaining in mind, as the kitchen, living, dining, and family rooms flow seamlessly. The home office is set apart to ensure a quiet space and has its own adjacent powder room. Another half bath and is located off the mudroom. Upstairs, the principle bedroom has a luxurious en-suite bathroom, with Carrera marble floors, furniture quality double vanity, and a large walk in shower. There are three other bedrooms, with a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and an additional hall bathroom.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.

This home’s focal point is its gorgeous three-story center staircase. The staircase features continuous custom-made raised panel wainscoting on the walls throughout each of the three stories. Consisting of red oak hardwood flooring, the staircase has an oak banister painted posts. The outside tread features a scallop detail.
This light and airy home in Chadds Ford, PA, was a custom home renovation for long-time clients that included the installation of red oak hardwood floors, the master bedroom, master bathroom, two powder rooms, living room, dining room, study, foyer and staircase. remodel included the removal of an existing deck, replacing it with a beautiful flagstone patio. Each of these spaces feature custom, architectural millwork and custom built-in cabinetry or shelving. A special showcase piece is the continuous, millwork throughout the 3-story staircase. To see other work we've done in this beautiful home, please search in our Projects for Chadds Ford, PA Home Remodel and Chadds Ford, PA Exterior Renovation.
Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Columbus' Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

The owners of this colonial-style house wanted to renovate their home to increase space and improve flow. We built a two-story addition that included a dining room and bar on the first floor (off of the family room) and a new master bathroom (creating a master suite).
RUDLOFF Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016 and 2017. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early on in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept, envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission; CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: JMB Photoworks

You won’t be disappointed to have a staycation at this beautiful Wellesley property. The homeowner came to us looking to completely overhaul their blank-slate property into a pool paradise. Our team creatively worked to design the pool area and the outcome was a truly special place to swim and relax.
The pool is the centerpiece of this backyard, it is a sleek design that seamlessly integrates into the landscape. It’s surrounded by a bluestone coping and a large patio made of Cambridge Pavers. The steps and retaining wall at the end of the pool are beautifully veneered with Berkshire natural stone. The stonework really tops off the hardscape, providing an appealing contrast to the paver patio material.
There are two features that really set this pool apart – the pool fountain jets and the automatic cover. The homeowner wanted “fountains like the Bellagio.” We worked with Environmental Pools to make that dream a reality. It was a tough decision to opt either for an infinity edge or an automatic cover for the pool, the homeowner eventually decided that it would be a better investment to have the automatic pool cover. With the push of a button, the cover goes from totally hidden to completely covering the pool for safety and keeping any leaves or dirt getting into the water. Clients often comment on how happy they are with their automatic pool covers. Automatic covers drastically reduce the time necessary to clean and maintain the pool, leaving them more time to simply enjoy and unwind outside.
Next to the pool is a wood-burning fire pit, a perfect place to sit and hang out and maybe even have a S’more in between cannonballs into the deep end. A row of lounge chairs ensures that everyone’s got a place to relax and soak in the sun.
As the homeowners have young kids it was essential to save a large amount of space for a beautifully manicured lawn. Whether you’re looking to throw a frisbee, play some cornhole, or kick a soccer ball there is more than enough room for activities.

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!).
After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family.
The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation.
This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition.
Project Team:
Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge
Chris Bach
Nate Dodge
54

