Search results for "Existed" in Home Design Ideas

This remodeling story is a wonderful example of how removing and shifting walls can have an amazing impact on the functionality and visual appeal of an entire level of a home. When our clients reached out to us, they were looking to create an open concept Kitchen that would allow for easy entertaining. The couple had recently purchased this townhome so his mother could be closer to the family.
The existing floorplan offered first floor living, but the Kitchen was tucked in the back and was separated from the rest of the living space by a full wall with a small pass through into the Dining Room. Our design involved removing the dividing wall between the Dining Room and Kitchen as well as the fake columns and beam that separated the Dining Room and Living Room. The entire space was opened up to allow for easy flow and view throughout the first floor living space. The wall shared by the Kitchen and large Master Bedroom was shifted back just enough to provide a full wall of additional cabinetry including a much-needed large double Pantry cabinet. Now that we had opened up the Kitchen area we could focus on the cabinetry layout and selections.
The existing wood toned cabinets were replaced with white cabinets and crown molding to match the rest of the home. The larger, open space allowed for more cabinetry and the addition of an island with new undermount sink, dishwasher and convenient trash pullout along with seating for the grandchildren. A new range hood was installed and vented to the exterior of the house to replace the old recirculating hood. We were able to repurpose the some of the existing cabinets for use above the washer and dryer in the adjoining Laundry Room and swapped out the existing swinging door for a pocket door to free up traffic flow when doing Laundry and working in the Kitchen. The slate-look ceramic tile was replaced with a pre-engineered hardwood floor that creates a sense of warmth while easy to clean. The new Cambria countertop compliments the slate-look tile found in the Dining Room and Living Room and a natural field tile backsplash offsets the cabinets beautifully.
The single fluorescent ceiling light was outdated and did not provide adequate lighting for the new Kitchen. The new lighting plan was carefully thought out to provide general illumination through well placed recessed lighting; task lighting through pendant lighting over the island and under cabinet lighting; and aesthetic fluidity with an eye-catching chandelier for the Dining Room table. Special details include a touch faucet, under counter microwave and glass front cabinetry for displaying dishes.
By removing and shifting walls, we improved the entire flow of the first floor visually as well as functionally and created a beautiful, light-filled space for cooking and entertaining. Grandma can easily prepare meals in her new Kitchen and still chat with her guests and grandchildren who love to sit at the island as well as in the adjoining Dining Room and Living Room.
The Benson Homes team really enjoyed creating this space for this family and we hope they will enjoy spending time with friends and family for years to come.

Sunset Heights Renovation
This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home.
Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design.
Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right.
The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment.
As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either.
At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations.
Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent.
Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!”
Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come!
Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

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2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER
A single family home in Oakton, VA built in late 80’ was occupied by family of four for 10 years. The owner wishes to expand the living space, finish the basement, add a sunroom/breakfast area addition, eliminate the deck and put in a screen porch. Also convert the laundry room to office/mudroom area.
It took months of planning to get into the final design.
We have implemented a plan that had a two story back addition (both basement level and first level).
This required removing the cinder block wall of basement to add the seamless addition, and removing the entire first level back wall of kitchen to open up kitchen into sunroom.
The major challenge was to re-route all duct work going to second level, add ducts for basement and first level to existing system. Then add a second HVAC system in attic for entire second level. Then change all load structure for tow story addition to side wall and new walls to have entire width opened up.
The basement has gained a new bar area, a total new bathroom with shower and large vanities and all amenities, media area with gas fireplace and mantel surrounded with matching cherry bookcases and granite tops, recess lights, surround sound system, wood floor and steps, new sewer ejection system due to their difficult septic tank. The new French doors lead into back bricked patio
The first floor gained this new 16’x20’ cathedral ceiling sunroom/breakfast addition surrounded with large arched windows and French slider leading into new screen porch.
The kitchen lay-out gained three more feet in width. Also by removing partition wall between kitchen and existing family room. The first floor now has total open floor plan. The fireplace in existing family room was converted to gas and got marble surround and new mantel.
All bulkhead and part of partition walls contained massive plumbing and electrical that needed to be relocated in order to implement the new kitchen layout. This design has much more appliances and a beautiful large furniture style island that is the focal point of this kitchen done in espresso color cherry cabinetry and contrasting light color exotic stove top lighted by two crystal chandeliers.
The wrap around of cherry cabinetry in the kitchen with expended cabinetry into butler area and bookcases and bench in sunroom has given this couple lots to fill in.
The entire first floor and leading stairs to second floor and part of the second floor was all covered with new 5” wide exotic Santos Mahogany wood floors and new railings.
The powder room has been reconfigured to allow larger hallway and with new furniture style vanity this powder room even small than before but has better layout and space.
The old Laundry room and has been converted to a 10’x15’ area of multipurpose space. On the left wall there are locker style cabinetry and bench. One the left wall built in and desk area with tones of storage space. The washer and dryer are install into a closet, away from site. A set of French doors were installed into the new back deck and screen porch.
The large porcelain floors made the space look even larger and more utilitarian. Use of cherry cabinetry on deck and bookcase with recess lighting scaled up look of the space.
The new kitchen, family room and sun room with the rich cherry cabinetry and darker granite top, tumbled marble backsplash and wide board mahogany floors, upper scale stainless steel appliances and furniture style distressed look darker wood Island and light granite have made this project a breathtaking one.
The added side screen porch done with Trex decking and cathedral ceiling covered in beaded panel and corner gas fireplace all around covered with Ledgestone has given this family a place to retire in for all those autumn afternoons and much more.
The major overhaul of this home from replacement of all existing doors and windows, flooring, crown molding and trim, stairs, entire first floor reface, new siding , new roofing, new electrical, new HVAC, entire new basement, bathroom, mud room, screen porch and lots more makes these owner proud to stay in this home for years to come.

Farmhouse Kitchen at the Lake
Our clients finally found their home on the lake, but it needed some updating. She loves to cook and entertain, and was excited to finally get her dream kitchen. It needed to feel comfortable, relaxed and timeless, but have ample storage and modern amenities.
- In an effort to keep costs reasonable, we did our best to stay within the footprint of the room. We kept the location of the sink under the window, and also kept the existing floors, which were a mix of wide plank pine and ceramic tile. We also kept the existing stove and dishwasher, but replaced the refrigerator and exhaust.
- We converted the existing two small closets into a much larger open pantry with sliding doors. We painted them black and added chicken wire.
- Kitchen cabinets are Bodbyn by IKEA. We chose glass front uppers to keep the space feeling light and airy. IKEA offered so many fun options for utensils, spices, trash/recycling, etc.
- Butcher block countertops
- Apron sink
- Stainless exhaust
- 3 x 12 White subway tile with and antique glaze (to complement the existing ceramic tile floor) – Ivy Hill Tile | Moze White
- Wall and Shiplap paint – Benjamin Moore | Sugar Cookie
- Pantry doors – Fushion Paints | Coal

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 custom screened-in patio in Central Texas transformed an existing covered outdoor area into a more comfortable and functional living space that can be enjoyed throughout more of the year. Bespoke Builders TX enclosed the patio using stained cedar framing and the ScreenEze screening system, creating a clean, durable finish that complements the home’s existing stone, rooflines, and outdoor architecture.
The enclosure was designed to preserve the open-air feel of the patio while providing protection from mosquitoes, insects, and debris. Large screened openings maintain clear views of the backyard and allow plenty of natural airflow, while the cedar framing adds warmth and architectural character to the space.
The finished patio also retains the existing outdoor fireplace, ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and tongue-and-groove wood ceiling, creating a comfortable outdoor room for relaxing, dining, and entertaining.
Bespoke Builders TX provides screened-in patio construction, ScreenEze installation, cedar framing, patio enclosures, porch remodeling, and outdoor living construction throughout Central Texas. We design custom screen enclosures around the existing home so the finished space feels like an intentional extension of the original architecture rather than an add-on.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Sunset Heights Renovation
This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home.
Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design.
Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right.
The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment.
As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either.
At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations.
Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent.
Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!”
Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come!
Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

The Setup
For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners sought to transform their outdated, beige-toned space into a bright, functional sanctuary. The existing bathroom felt cramped and lifeless, with a small shower and limited storage options. The goal was to create a fresh, updated bathroom that maximizes the existing footprint while addressing specific desires for a more open, organized space with timeless materials.
Design objectives:
Brighten the bathroom and eliminate the dated beige color scheme
Install a freestanding tub in a compact space
Create a larger, more open shower without encroaching on the existing foot print too much
Incorporate hidden storage solutions
Maintain the existing bathroom layout while improving functionality
Update lighting and fixtures to create a contemporary feel
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
- Compact Space Utilization – The small bathroom required careful planning to accommodate a freestanding tub while maintaining functionality and avoiding overcrowding.
- Hidden Storage Integration – The clients wanted a discreet hamper solution that wouldn’t clutter the limited floor space.
- Shower Niche Placement – With plumbing limitations and the clients’ desire to preserve their wavy accent tile wall, finding the perfect niche spot became a creative puzzle.
- Tile and Finish Coordination – Selecting complementary white tile and floor materials that worked harmoniously together.
- Larger Shower Space – Make the shower feel more open and brighter
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
- Strategic Tub Placement – The freestanding tub was carefully positioned to maximize space, with its faucet strategically placed to allow easy access while preserving walking room. We reduced the counter depth just a bit by the tub, allowing more room for hamper cabinet and window access.
- Concealed Hamper Storage – A custom pull-out hamper was integrated into the vanity (right side, by tub), providing discreet storage within an 18-inch depth constraint.
- Shower Plumbing Wall Niche – We shifted the niche left, just enough to work around the plumbing infrastructure and still score a roomy storage spot that looks intentional.
- Sophisticated Selections – Porcelanosa curvy white tile, Kohler brushed gold fixtures, and a neutral grey tile floor created a simple, timeless aesthetic that will be loved years to come.
- Open Shower – Replacing the side wall with a clear glass surround, continuing the tile on the ceiling and extending the footprint opened up this area to the room while allowing more natural lighting into the shower space.
This bathroom transformation shows how thoughtful design turns challenges into opportunities. Brushed gold fixtures add warmth to the fresh white palette, while the perfectly balanced floor tile brings just the right depth. A partially glass-fronted vanity introduces subtle charm, giving the space a unique edge. Once cramped and outdated, this bathroom now feels bright, spacious, and serene—a testament to how every design detail makes a difference.

We were approached with a request to design the furnishings for an existing ‘finished’ apartment. The intention was to move in relatively fast, and the property already had an existing marble floor, kitchen and bathrooms which had to be kept. The property also boasted a fantastic 270 degree view, seen from most of the apartment. The clients had a very important role in the completion of the project. They were very involved during the design process and through various decoration choices. The final design was kept as a rigid guideline when faced with picking out all the different elements.
Once clear of all previous furniture, the space felt cold and bare; so we immediately felt the need for warmth, and raw, natural elements and textures to complement the cold marble floor while visually tying in the design of the whole apartment together.
Since the existing kitchen had a touch of dark walnut stain, we felt this material was one we should add to the palette of materials to contest the stark materials. A raw cement finish was another material we felt would add an interesting contrast and could be used in a variety of ways, from cabinets to walls and ceilings, to tie up the design of various areas of the apartment.
To warm up the living/dining area, keeping the existing marble floor but visually creating zones within the large living/dining area without hindering the flow, a dark timber custom-made soffit, continuous with a floor-to-ceiling drinks cabinet zones the dining area, giving it a degree of much-needed warmth.
The various windows with a stupendous 270 degree view needed to be visually tied together. This was done by introducing a continuous sheer [drape] which also doubled up as a sound-absorbing material along 2 of the 4 walls of the space.
A very large sofa was required to fill up the space correctly, also required for the size of the young family.
Services were integrated within the units and soffits, while a customized design in the corner between the kitchen and the living room took into consideration the viewpoints from the main areas to create a pantry without hindering the flow or views. A strategically placed floor-to-ceiling mirror doubles up the space and extends the view to the inner parts of the apartment.
The daughter’s bedroom was a small challenge in itself, and a fun task, where we wanted to achieve the perception of a cozy niche with its own enclosed reading nook [for reading fairy tales], behind see-through curtains and a custom-ordered wall print sporting the girl’s favorite colors.
The sons’ bedroom had double the requirements in terms of space needed: more wardrobe, more homework desk space, a tv/play station area… “We combined a raised platform area between the boys’ beds to become an area with cushions where the kids can lay down and play, and face a hidden screen behind the homework desk’s sliding back panel for their play station”. The color of the homework desk was chosen in relation to the boys’ ages. A more masculine material palette was chosen for this room, in contrast to the light pastel palette of the girl’s bedroom. Again, this colour can easily be changed over time for a more mature look.
PROJECT DATA:
St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
DESIGN TEAM:
Perit Rebecca Zammit, Perit Daniel Scerri, Elyse Tonna
OTHER CREDITS:
Photography: Tonio Lombardi
Styling : TKS

Sunset Heights Renovation
This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home.
Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design.
Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right.
The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment.
As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either.
At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations.
Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent.
Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!”
Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come!
Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

The challenge was to remake the kitchen using the existing cabinets and existing floor and appliances, tops and island. I made new doors and drawer fronts used existing crown added trim and undercounter lighting combined a new backsplash and cabinet pulls and put a glaze on new paint. And redesigned the existing island. A budget of $10,000.

This Bonita Bay home, located in a 2,400-acre gated community with 1,400 acres of parks, nature preserves, lakes and open spaces, is an ideal location for this retired couple. They loved everything about their home—the neighborhood, yard, and the distance to shopping areas. But, one vital amenity was lacking—a spacious family room. The clients needed a new space to read and showcase their treasured artwork. Building a first-floor addition was the perfect solution to upgrading their living conditions. As the project evolved, they also added a built-in book case/entertainment wall.
With minimal disruption to existing space and to the family, who lived in the home throughout the remodeling project, Progressive Builders was able to dig up a small section of the front yard, in the area where the addition would sit. We then installed a new foundation and constructed the walls and roof of the addition before opening up the existing exterior wall and linking the new and old spaces.
An important part of the design process was making sure that the addition blended stylistically with the original structure of the home. Progressive Builders carefully matched the existing stucco finish on the exterior of the home and the natural stone floors that existed inside the home. Distinctive trim work was added to the new addition, giving the new space a fresh, updated look.
In the end, the remodel seamlessly blended with the original structure, and the client now spends more time in their new family room addition than any other room in their home.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

This Virginia couple recently moved into a five-acre lot in Haymarket, VA with the expectation of adding an in-law suite to the right side of their home.
The addition provides complete independence, with its own garage, secondary garage/storage space with built-in ramp, workshop, a master suite and closet, an aging-in-place bathroom, kitchen, and a main living area, along with a front porch overlooking the front of the home.
This couple wanted to maintain the exterior integrity with a seamless connection between the interior and exterior of the home. Matching the front gables, stone and siding fronts, replicating the fascia, windows and doors, garage doors and other details.
The front porch leads to the front door of the main living and kitchen area towards the rear portion. A side door leads into the mudroom and existing home.
The rear side includes a master bedroom suite which leads towards twelve feet of French doors on the back deck of the existing home, connecting the new deck to the existing porch. A large closet space with built-ins is placed just off the bedroom and connects to the master bathroom suite. This bathroom is equipped with large walk-in shower, frameless glass door, a soaking tub, beautiful tile setting, and double vanity space giving the luxury one needs.
The lead staircase connects the upstairs level to the basement level, which includes one multipurpose room, second garage, storage and a workshop. Lots of windows and doors allow plenty of daylight to enter this addition. Outside of the French doors, one can walk onto the basketball court and soccer.
Every element of the existing home was replicated for this addition such as, matching cabinetry, trim work, 10 foot ceiling, wide size wood plank, granite countertops and much more.
The front garage provides direct access from driveway and the interior ramp serves as a walkway.
This family is delighted to have their loved one living just few steps away from them.

We absolutely love the final result of this unique, two-toned kitchen! Our clients came to us with the need for a lot of love in their kitchen. Their home, situated in the Fox Ridge neighboorhood of Centennial, is a lovely and spacious house with lots of potential. The kitchen, while very sizable, contained a number of super dated elements. Our goal was to give the kitchen a complete aesthetic facelift, but to also encourage better function in the kitchen. Our primary concern was disconnecting the existing (huge) peninsula and replacing it with a centralized island. This busy family of four will benefit from the gathering space the island provides. We worked with the existing ceiling condition to create a unique, recessed wood-clad ceiling that offers a gorgeous rustic aesthetic. The existing linoleum flooring was replaced with beautiful walnut hardwood. New cabinets were installed in a two-toned orientation. The upper cabinets are a soft stone gray and the lowers are a painted hazelnut. We've stacked cabinets next to the range to create a secondary pantry storage area, and repaired portions of the existing pantry to optimize shelving space and appearance. The kitchen also includes a new desk area integrated into the cabinet run for homework and to-do lists. A new large, singe-basin sink and pull-down faucet were installed, and the kitchen is brought together by the mini-stacked stone backsplash that brings texture and warmth to the room. We've offered durable and beautiful working surfaces by topping the cabinets with quartz countertops: MSI Boletus against the window wall and MSI Concerto on the island. We love the look the of this final result, but particularly love the optimized function that it offers this wonderful family!

THE SETUP
Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining.
Design Vision:
The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout.
Design Objectives:
Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings
Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional
Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors
Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction
Design Challenges:
Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor
Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen
The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options
Insufficient space for wine storage
The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall
Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage
Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments
Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine
Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation.
Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

This was and still is a 2,700 s.f. brick rancher yet this project resulted in a complete makeover while still maintaining the original footprint and exterior structure. The house was built in 1954 in a lovely location across the street from the Grove Park Inn Golf Club.
During our initial meeting, my clients, who had recently moved to Asheville, expressed that they enjoyed cooking and engaging with their family and friends while doing so. They wanted the bathrooms updated, a more functional master bedroom and a larger kitchen. The house had a traditional layout with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a small kitchen, separate dining and living rooms with an adjoining 570 s.f. family room. It didn’t take long before we all agreed that the large family room would be converted to their master bedroom suite. In order to expand the kitchen, a wall between the existing kitchen and dining was removed, stairs leading to the basement were relocated, a bump out in the existing kitchen became a pantry and one of the adjacent bedrooms was opened up to the new kitchen as the new dining room. Both baths were redesigned and a powder room was created by rearranging existing closets. An existing curved wall in the hallway prompted the design of large open arches between the newly created spaces. This concept extended to the design on curved counter surfaces in the kitchen along with a reflected curved dropped ceiling over the cooking area.
The exterior of the house was enhanced with bay windows, a new copper-roofed front porch overlooking the Grove Park Inn properties with the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond. A circular drive was designed for the convenience of guests. Exterior double-hung windows were replaced with French patio doors in the new kitchen/dining and living areas. This allows easy access to the new front porch and back deck while enhancing the openness of the home.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Trish Takacs Design
Award Winning & Highly Skilled Kitchen & Bath Designer in Columbus

Here is an example of one of my refacing projects. We used Showplace Wood Products- Renew program! We went with Showplace's Galena Door Style, in Paint Grade with Mocha Paint and an Ivory Glaze.
This is another option instead of going with new cabinets that can often help save you money, saves time and it gives you the option of keeping your existing counters. We can still add any new cabinet if need be, like we did on this project.
You sure cannot tell that these were my client's existing cabinets! The existing cabinets were originally plain old red oak cabinets. I've got say, it sure looks like we went with new ones. They didn't want the expense of removing and replacing their existing granite counter tops, they also wanted to do away with the desk area, add some wine storage and a new wood counter. We added a bookcase on the end of the island for cookbooks and replace their old sink with a new stainless farm sink and of course, a new tiled back splash!

TEHALEH CUSTOM DECK & BENCH
Are you ready to start your project?
We look forward to working with you on your next remodel or new custom built home, from the design process through construction and delivery.
Book a service with us!
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This garden project began with the demolition of an existing pool and decks cantilevered over a hillside. The garden was originally a Japanese-themed garden retreat and free-form shaped pool. While the client wanted to update and replace many elements, they sought to keep the free-form characteristics of the existing design and repurpose existing materials. BK Landscape Design created a new garden with revetment walls and steps to a succulent garden with salvaged boulders from the pool and pool coping. We built a colored concrete path to access a new wood trellis constructed on the center-line view from the master bedroom. A combination of Bay friendly, native and evergreen plantings were chosen for the planting palette. The overhaul of the yard included low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage. A new wood deck replaced the existing one at the entrance as well as a deck off of the master bedroom that was also constructed from repurposed materials. The style mimics the architectural detail of the mansard roof and simple horizontal wood siding of the house. After removing a juniper (as required by the San Rafael Fire Department within the Wildland-Urban interface) we designed and developed a full front-yard planting plan. All plants are Bay-Friendly, native, and irrigated with a more efficient in-line drip irrigation system to minimize water use. Low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage were also part of the overhaul of the front yard redesign.
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