What began as a dated primary bathroom and undersized closet evolved into a light-filled retreat designed around the homeowners' lifestyle. The original space featured a large built-in tub, oversized shower enclosure, limited storage, and an inefficient closet layout that no longer met the family's needs. Through extensive demolition and structural modifications, the bathroom and closet were completely reconfigured to maximize both function and beauty. Walls were removed, storage was reimagined, and every square foot was carefully planned to create a more open, luxurious experience. The finished space features a freestanding soaking tub positioned beneath expansive windows, a custom walk-in shower wrapped in marble-look porcelain, warm brass fixtures and hardware, custom cabinetry, and a fully tailored dressing room with dedicated storage for clothing, shoes, and accessories. Soft neutral finishes, elegant lighting, and thoughtfully layered details create a timeless primary suite designed to feel like a private retreat.

This new home in Westborough, MA provides 2,800 sq. ft. of living space, with an open first floor plan and multi-tiered second floor designed to bring in abundant natural light and capture views of the meadow to the rear. The design evolved from plans provided by the owners, and was adapted to the unique features of the site. We were also thrilled to help the owners pursue their desired “net zero energy” goal. Careful air-sealing, insulation levels at R-60 in the roof and R-32 in walls, efficient HVAC equipment, and a 7-kilowatt solar photovoltaic array qualified the house for a HERS rating of 22 and Energy Star Tier 3 certification. Low-VOC finishes, adhesives, and other materials were selected and an HVAC system designed to optimize indoor air quality for healthy living. Custom detailing was also a major focus of the interior design, including unique maple and cherry cabinetry and millwork.

The picture our clients had in mind was a boutique hotel lobby with a modern feel and their favorite art on the walls. We designed a space perfect for adult and tween use, like entertaining and playing billiards with friends. We used alder wood panels with nickel reveals to unify the visual palette of the basement and rooms on the upper floors. Beautiful linoleum flooring in black and white adds a hint of drama. Glossy, white acrylic panels behind the walkup bar bring energy and excitement to the space. We also remodeled their Jack-and-Jill bathroom into two separate rooms – a luxury powder room and a more casual bathroom, to accommodate their evolving family needs. --- Project designed by Minneapolis interior design studio LiLu Interiors. They serve the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, including Wayzata, Edina, and Rochester, and they travel to the far-flung destinations where their upscale clientele owns second homes. For more about LiLu Interiors, see here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/portfolio-items/hotel-inspired-basement-design/

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Not all renovations go according to plan. Such was the case with our Brentwood Project. Our clients began their project just wanting to update their cabinetry, but keep their existing countertops and backsplash. When the design evolved and created a need for a new piece of granite for the island, we soon learned that the current color lot for their granite looked nothing like their existing counters. With cabinetry already ordered and on its way, there was a quick scramble to select new granite, pushing the color palate in a new direction. This also created a need for a new backsplash, which was quickly remedied with an amazing tile by Ann Saks. While the layout of the space may not have changed much, the overall aesthetic brightens the room and makes it more pleasant to work in. Matt Villano Photography

The first Net Zero Minto Dream Home: At Minto Communities, we’re always trying to evolve through research and development. We see building the Minto Dream Home as an opportunity to push the boundaries on innovative home building practices, so this year’s Minto Dream Home, the Hampton—for the first time ever—has been built as a Net Zero Energy home. This means the home will produce as much energy as it consumes. Carefully considered East-coast elegance: Returning this year to head up the interior design, we have Tanya Collins. The Hampton is based on our largest Mahogany design—the 3,551 sq. ft. Redwood. It draws inspiration from the sophisticated beach-houses of its namesake. Think relaxed coastal living, a soft neutral colour palette, lots of light, wainscotting, coffered ceilings, shiplap, wall moulding, and grasscloth wallpaper. * 5,641 sq. ft. of living space * 4 bedrooms * 3.5 bathrooms * Finished basement with oversized entertainment room, exercise space, and a juice bar * A great room featuring stunning views of the surrounding nature

The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

NBCUniversal, Inc + Lukas Machnik Design
Inspiration for a coastal home design remodel in Los Angeles

Evolved in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this Colorado Contemporary home features a blend of materials to complement the surrounding landscape. This home triggered a blast into a quartz geode vein which inspired a classy chic style interior and clever use of exterior materials. These include flat rusted siding to bring out the copper veins, Cedar Creek Cascade thin stone veneer speaks to the surrounding cliffs, Stucco with a finish of Moondust, and rough cedar fine line shiplap for a natural yet minimal siding accent. Its dramatic yet tasteful interiors, of exposed raw structural steel, Calacatta Classique Quartz waterfall countertops, hexagon tile designs, gold trim accents all the way down to the gold tile grout, reflects the Chic Colorado while providing cozy and intimate spaces throughout.

Inspiration for a contemporary kitchen remodel in Wichita

48" kohler farmhouse sink with wood wash board and dual faucets
Transitional dark wood floor kitchen photo in Los Angeles with a farmhouse sink, medium tone wood cabinets, wood countertops and no island

The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

For their third Urbanology collaboration, longtime clients and close friends, the Songs, both physicians, envisioned a beautifully designed home in Dallas that exuded calm functionality and understated beauty. Rooted in their Asian heritage and Kim’s love for wabi-sabi simplicity, the design embraced clean lines, warm neutrals, and tactile materials that feel approachable yet elevated. The entry and living spaces were reimagined with textural millwork and a sculptural fireplace, creating cohesion and a serene rhythm between daily life and family gatherings. In the office, a once-awkward layout was transformed through custom millwork that turned the piano into a purposeful centerpiece, joined by a reading nook and seamless storage. The expansive primary bedroom gained intimacy and balance through built-in plaster planters, library-style cabinetry, and a curved sofa perfect for evening wine and conversation. Peter’s guest-turned-primary bath became a master class in function, featuring seamless, antimicrobial surfaces and smart hidden storage for his daily rituals. Through every detail, this third phase of the Midway Hollow residence reflects “the art of ease”: spaces that are clean but lived-in, practical but poetic. What began as functional refinements evolved into a warm, layered home—one that honors the couple’s rhythm, heritage, and pursuit of a life beautifully designed, but never overdone.

This fall, Amethyst had the opportunity to partner with Freeman Custom Homes of Kansas City to furnish this 5000 sq ft European Modern designed home for the Artisan Home Tour 2020! Every square inch of this home was magical -- from the secret staircase in the master bath leading to a private shuttered plunge pool to the vaulted kitchen with sky high mushroom colored cabinetry and handmade zellige tile. We met the builders during the cabinetry phase and watching their final, thoughtful design details evolve was such full of over-the-top surprises like the unique valet-like storage in the entry and limestone fireplace! As soon as we saw their vision for the home, we knew our furnishings would be a great match as our design style celebrates handmade rugs, artisan handmade custom seating, old-meets-new art, and let's be honest -- we love to go big! They trusted us to do our thing on the entire main level and we enjoyed every minute. The load in took 3 full trucks and fortunately for us -- the homeowners fell in love with several pieces so our uninstall trip was significantly lighter. I think we were all a little emotional leaving this masterpiece but sooooo happy for the owners and just hoping we get invited to a Christmas party... Here are some of the highlights -- 90% of the furnishings and rugs were from our shop and we filled in the gaps with some extra special pieces!

The picture our clients had in mind was a boutique hotel lobby with a modern feel and their favorite art on the walls. We designed a space perfect for adult and tween use, like entertaining and playing billiards with friends. We used alder wood panels with nickel reveals to unify the visual palette of the basement and rooms on the upper floors. Beautiful linoleum flooring in black and white adds a hint of drama. Glossy, white acrylic panels behind the walkup bar bring energy and excitement to the space. We also remodeled their Jack-and-Jill bathroom into two separate rooms – a luxury powder room and a more casual bathroom, to accommodate their evolving family needs. --- Project designed by Minneapolis interior design studio LiLu Interiors. They serve the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, including Wayzata, Edina, and Rochester, and they travel to the far-flung destinations where their upscale clientele owns second homes. For more about LiLu Interiors, see here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.liluinteriors.com/portfolio-items/hotel-inspired-basement-design/

The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

tonystakis@shopgothic.com Gothic Cabinet Craft has made custom furniture for over 40 years. Whether you need a custom fit built-in wall unit of cabinets or a unique piece that until now has only been in your imagination, Gothic can make it for you. With the American Dream and a lot of hard work. Gothic Cabinet Craft was started in 1969 in NYC by a Greek immigrant Theodore Zaharopoulos, who was determined to make it. With a focus on quality and affordability, our founder's designs evolved into practical storage solutions for urban areas. The Original ™ Storage, Original ™ Platform, and Original ™ Captains beds were all developed by him and are now a common staple in all furniture stores. A family operated business, Gothic continues to offer high quality affordable furniture for every home. To back this up, Gothic is one of the only furniture companies anywhere in the world to provide a lifetime warranty. Now serving the entire US, Gothic is the largest manufacturer of unfinished furniture on the East Coast. Gothic Cabinet Craft is a family operated business that manufacturers affordable real wood furniture for every room in your home. Stop into our stores today and experience the Gothic difference.