We had the pleasure of working with a family that loved their property but was looking for something more from their home's layout. They dreamed of a kitchen with not just one, but two, islands and a home that could seamlessly transition from hosting chic dinner parties to cozy family gatherings. Our client imagined a place where sleek design meets spaces crafted for making memories, entertaining, and personal retreats for downtime and reflection. We transformed the kitchen into a lively hub for culinary exploration, where cooking becomes an event shared with friends and laughter. Each meal here is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories. This central part of the home flows naturally into the dining area, a versatile space that’s perfect for both quiet family meals and larger celebrations. The living room has been updated into a modern, welcoming space that invites relaxation and conversation. It's a testament to contemporary design that also fosters an atmosphere of togetherness and engaging moments. By moving the laundry and powder rooms, we expanded the primary suite into a personal oasis, thoughtfully designed for relaxation and recharging. Every aspect of this home mirrors our client's desire for a space that blends stylish entertainment with comfortable, everyday living. We've ensured that each area is not only functional but also enhances the experiences and moments shared within, striking a balance between modern chic and welcoming warmth.

The goal of this project was to have a modern kitchen with a country home elegance. In this example, we mix three essential ingredients for creating a country homestyle cooking space: modern features, rustic elements, and industrial-inspired accents. When blended just right, the result is a sophisticated kitchen that's also warm and inviting keeping the charm of an old country kitchen. There are no hard-set rules for modern farmhouse colors. However, a winning palette seen in many spaces combines pastels, black, and natural wood tones. We loved the original walnut floor and worked with earthy colours of light greens and coffee hues to make the kitchen inviting to an old farmhouse with all the functions of modern appliances. We were able to accomplish all the needs of the client’s project that started out as kitchen renovation. The project scope refocused to renovating the main floor living area, a new kitchen, updated laundry room and new powder room. The main floor kitchen space felt cramped due to a small dining room near the sliding doors. To gain space we started with a smaller foot print of the kitchen island and moved the dining area to the right of the island opening up the kitchen, gaining space with natural light flowing through the sliding doors. We removed the old dated popcorn ceilings and relocated the pot lights to give better lighting in areas that needed it and removed lights that didn’t need it. The end result is a country kitchen with character and charm.

The goal of this project was to have a modern kitchen with a country home elegance. In this example, we mix three essential ingredients for creating a country homestyle cooking space: modern features, rustic elements, and industrial-inspired accents. When blended just right, the result is a sophisticated kitchen that's also warm and inviting keeping the charm of an old country kitchen. There are no hard-set rules for modern farmhouse colors. However, a winning palette seen in many spaces combines pastels, black, and natural wood tones. We loved the original walnut floor and worked with earthy colours of light greens and coffee hues to make the kitchen inviting to an old farmhouse with all the functions of modern appliances. We were able to accomplish all the needs of the client’s project that started out as kitchen renovation. The project scope refocused to renovating the main floor living area, a new kitchen, updated laundry room and new powder room. The main floor kitchen space felt cramped due to a small dining room near the sliding doors. To gain space we started with a smaller foot print of the kitchen island and moved the dining area to the right of the island opening up the kitchen, gaining space with natural light flowing through the sliding doors. We removed the old dated popcorn ceilings and relocated the pot lights to give better lighting in areas that needed it and removed lights that didn’t need it. The end result is a country kitchen with character and charm.

The goal of this project was to have a modern kitchen with a country home elegance. In this example, we mix three essential ingredients for creating a country homestyle cooking space: modern features, rustic elements, and industrial-inspired accents. When blended just right, the result is a sophisticated kitchen that's also warm and inviting keeping the charm of an old country kitchen. There are no hard-set rules for modern farmhouse colors. However, a winning palette seen in many spaces combines pastels, black, and natural wood tones. We loved the original walnut floor and worked with earthy colours of light greens and coffee hues to make the kitchen inviting to an old farmhouse with all the functions of modern appliances. We were able to accomplish all the needs of the client’s project that started out as kitchen renovation. The project scope refocused to renovating the main floor living area, a new kitchen, updated laundry room and new powder room. The main floor kitchen space felt cramped due to a small dining room near the sliding doors. To gain space we started with a smaller foot print of the kitchen island and moved the dining area to the right of the island opening up the kitchen, gaining space with natural light flowing through the sliding doors. We removed the old dated popcorn ceilings and relocated the pot lights to give better lighting in areas that needed it and removed lights that didn’t need it. The end result is a country kitchen with character and charm.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

This Block-Sided 10x20 Signature Series DIY Installation out of Atlanta, GA showcases how to work from home, the right way. Promoting a bright, positive mood throughout the 9-to-5 grind, our high-efficiency windows and Full-Lite Glass French Doors bathe the Life Style Interior of this Studio Shed in natural light. Amber-hued Hickory Hardwood Flooring contrasts against white-washed walls to warm up the space. This Signature Series is positioned just steps away from leisure-time. Just within one’s line of sight whilst in his or her desk chair is an outdoor pool and an al fresco seating area. After a particularly grueling workday, one can still look forward to having a place where he or she could chat away about the day’s events with a loved one. With a Studio Shed, working from home can be productive, and with an office you can leave behind at the end of the day. Rethink how you organize not only your backyard, but also your professional life with us. Configure a Signature Series backyard office of your own with our convenient 3-D modeling tool on our website: https://www.studio-shed.com/configurator/

Creo Concepts is a landscape construction company based in Elora, Ontario. We seek to be leaders in innovative, European landscape designs to enhance properties for generations to come. We are proud to be the first company in Ontario to make hand-crafted Cruck Marquee Tents available for purchase. Whether it’s used for a corporate event or in a private back yard, the Cruck Marquee Tent combines function and design. “Cruck” refers to the pair of curved timbers that defines the structure. Originating in Medieval Europe, the cruck frame epitomizes old-world craftsmanship. The cruck frame is exceptionally strong and can support a heavy load, that, combined with traditional mortise and tenon joinery produces a structure that will stand the test of time. The Cruck Marquee comes with a 9 oz. canvas that will not only provide shade from the sun but will also protect from the rain. Optional side canvases and hardwood tent poles are also available to extend coverage and allow spaces for side tables and other furnishings. The structure can be placed on a patio or even on the lawn on its timber “feet.” Set up and take down is easy with wood pegs fastening the mortise and tenon joinery of the frame.

We had the pleasure of working with a family that loved their property but was looking for something more from their home's layout. They dreamed of a kitchen with not just one, but two, islands and a home that could seamlessly transition from hosting chic dinner parties to cozy family gatherings. Our client imagined a place where sleek design meets spaces crafted for making memories, entertaining, and personal retreats for downtime and reflection. We transformed the kitchen into a lively hub for culinary exploration, where cooking becomes an event shared with friends and laughter. Each meal here is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories. This central part of the home flows naturally into the dining area, a versatile space that’s perfect for both quiet family meals and larger celebrations. The living room has been updated into a modern, welcoming space that invites relaxation and conversation. It's a testament to contemporary design that also fosters an atmosphere of togetherness and engaging moments. By moving the laundry and powder rooms, we expanded the primary suite into a personal oasis, thoughtfully designed for relaxation and recharging. Every aspect of this home mirrors our client's desire for a space that blends stylish entertainment with comfortable, everyday living. We've ensured that each area is not only functional but also enhances the experiences and moments shared within, striking a balance between modern chic and welcoming warmth.

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Jennifer Taylor Home's Elise is a dyed monument grey 2-seater bench which makes it the perfect addition to any living space looking to add a bit of a modern or contemporary flair. Upholstered with a cotton and linen blend, this simple yet elegant roll arm design with hand applied nail head trims is lovely placed in your living room or office. Regardless of anywhere you place this bench in your home or office; the Elise’s soft colored eye catching design will draw attention the room. This bench will help liven up your room or any living space and give that refreshing and clean look that’ll be sure to please anyone who walks in. The cushioned top is perfect for providing extra seating for you and your guests during the holidays or any event gatherings. Features: - Strong and sturdy steam dried hardwood frame is solidly made with plywood and Birchwood to ensure maximum support and longevity - Quality hand built, painted, and rubbed by experienced furniture craftsmen and women to guarantee this piece lasts a lifetime - Made with fire retardant foam - Some assembly required - Dry clean or spot clean only - Dimensions: 60"W x 16 1/2"D x 26"H - Weight: 30LBS

Architect: Olivieri Shouisky & Kiss of Collingwood NJ Roofer: Donald B. Smith of Hanover PA Tile Country French in 3 size and 3 color Blend. This magnificent residence for fills three separate functions; It is the home for the owners as well as providing separate accommodation for the owner’s mother. But most importantly it provides ample accommodation for charitable events which are regularly held at the home. They have a sizable dining room with the necessary food preparation area as well as a grand ball room. This is todate the single largest roof we have supplied and the building is close to 400’ long. When we first became involved with the roofer he pointed out they had never installed a tile roof before. I asked if they installed slate roofs and JD Miller the project manager immediately replied in the affirmative. I explained to JD that when I first entered the roof tile installation industry back in 1976 I was told ‘a slater can tile but a tiler cannot necessarily slate’. With some guidance from Northern the crew from Donald B Smith did a magnificent job proving the old adage was correct.

A common theme throughout this home is the blended indoor/outdoor spaces and the outdoor kitchen is no different! Aside from the multi-panel slider that fully opens up, the dining table is the only thing that stands between the expansive main indoor kitchen and this beautiful outdoor kitchen, designed specifically for the clients who regularly host events. This outdoor space is spread out along the side of the house allowing for one side’s main function to be for cooking, complete with a professional outdoor grill and pizza oven, while the other side acts as a bar for entertaining with prep station and central island seating. The homeowners are able to enjoy this incredible space year round with the help up retractable screens and outdoor heaters to keep it cozy during those cooler months.

Architect: Olivieri Shouisky & Kiss of Collingwood NJ Roofer: Donald B. Smith of Hanover PA Tile Country French in 3 size and 3 color Blend. This magnificent residence for fills three separate functions; It is the home for the owners as well as providing separate accommodation for the owner’s mother. But most importantly it provides ample accommodation for charitable events which are regularly held at the home. They have a sizable dining room with the necessary food preparation area as well as a grand ball room. This is todate the single largest roof we have supplied and the building is close to 400’ long. When we first became involved with the roofer he pointed out they had never installed a tile roof before. I asked if they installed slate roofs and JD Miller the project manager immediately replied in the affirmative. I explained to JD that when I first entered the roof tile installation industry back in 1976 I was told ‘a slater can tile but a tiler cannot necessarily slate’. With some guidance from Northern the crew from Donald B Smith did a magnificent job proving the old adage was correct.

The Updated Traditional Meet Kim: a partner in a downtown law firm. To say that she is short on time is a giant understatement. In the rare event she has a free moment, she wants to spend it with her kids, not fussing over home decor. That’s my cue! Kim is my favorite type of client. She didn’t know where to go or what to do. She leaned on me to explain and articulate design and style. She looked to me to make her home a mirror of her best self. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Fantastic human giving me a blank slate? Yes please! While Kim’s traditional home had a great layout and good bones, it needed updating to make it contemporary and fresh. It needed fixtures and knobs from this century. It needed a Lulu DK roman shade in the powder room. It needed a durable, snuggle-ready sofa with tufting and little patterns of texture. It needed drapery with small-scale drama. Throw in a Thomas O’ Brian cocktail table, and now there’s no shortage of conversation pieces. Little spaces make me happy – they are the most intimate snapshot of your entire home’s aesthetic – and this house has some good ones. I couldn’t wait to work with the nooks and crannies of this house. Kim’s sitting room, a small den off of the master bedroom, morphed into a craveable cozy space, a quiet adult respite from the occasional chaos of raising a family. The kitchen evolved into something quite unique: playful yet modest, dressed-up but centered. We used a favorite Lucy Rose fabric and Galbraith & Paul pillows to work perfectly with a fresh color palette selected during a prior-to-me renovation. A locally made kitchen farm table fit right in with the high-fashioned quirky blend of color, texture, and pattern. High-End + Color = Fun + Functional This is how we articulated Kim’s style and personality. She trusted me with her inner self, allowing me to get to know her and her real, everyday life. I built her a special space to reflect the beautiful life she made for herself. Nothing too fancy or off-limits to little hands, nothing too stuffy (snore!). Everything 100% HER. #nailedit See more Safferstone stuff at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, send us a love note at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger

A common theme throughout this home is the blended indoor/outdoor spaces and the outdoor kitchen is no different! Aside from the multi-panel slider that fully opens up, the dining table is the only thing that stands between the expansive main indoor kitchen and this beautiful outdoor kitchen, designed specifically for the clients who regularly host events. This outdoor space is spread out along the side of the house allowing for one side’s main function to be for cooking, complete with a professional outdoor grill and pizza oven, while the other side acts as a bar for entertaining with prep station and central island seating. The homeowners are able to enjoy this incredible space year round with the help up retractable screens and outdoor heaters to keep it cozy during those cooler months.

A common theme throughout this home is the blended indoor/outdoor spaces and the outdoor kitchen is no different! Aside from the multi-panel slider that fully opens up, the dining table is the only thing that stands between the expansive main indoor kitchen and this beautiful outdoor kitchen, designed specifically for the clients who regularly host events. This outdoor space is spread out along the side of the house allowing for one side’s main function to be for cooking, complete with a professional outdoor grill and pizza oven, while the other side acts as a bar for entertaining with prep station and central island seating. The homeowners are able to enjoy this incredible space year round with the help up retractable screens and outdoor heaters to keep it cozy during those cooler months.

Shaw San Francisco/Presido tile with Silverado grout used as the backslash and carried around the sliding doors into the breakfast nook walls. The kitchen was added to in 2007 and new cabinetry installed then. Homeowner kept existing cabinetry, added new farmhouse sink, granite counter tops and tile back splash.

This Farmhouse style home was designed around the separate spaces and wraps or hugs around the courtyard, it’s inviting, comfortable and timeless. A welcoming entry and sliding doors suggest indoor/ outdoor living through all of the private and public main spaces including the Entry, Kitchen, living, and master bedroom. Another major design element for the interior of this home called the “galley” hallway, features high clerestory windows and creative entrances to two of the spaces. Custom Double Sliding Barn Doors to the office and an oversized entrance with sidelights and a transom window, frame the main entry and draws guests right through to the rear courtyard. The owner’s one-of-a-kind creative craft room and laundry room allow for open projects to rest without cramping a social event in the public spaces. Lastly, the HUGE but unassuming 2,200 sq ft garage provides two tiers and space for a full sized RV, off road vehicles and two daily drivers. This home is an amazing example of balance between on-site toy storage, several entertaining space options and private/quiet time and spaces alike.