For Elisia, the important thing for her space was…well…the need for more space. She explains: “Space and function were at the top of my design wish list. Those issues were ad-dressed by using corner cabinets and IKEA SEKTION high-gloss slab doors that would be easy to clean.” Specifically, the white, high-gloss cabinetry is featured above the stainless steel compact refrigerator and along the perimeter with two upper cabinets above the gas range — ideal as use as a pantry and for storage of dishes, glassware and serving plates. The base cabinetry runs past the range to the dishwasher along the large breakfast bar, which complements the design with stylish quartz countertops. This also provides additional storage options for pots and pans while keeping an efficient workflow for easy meal prep. The breakfast bar area also provides a suitable space for two to comfortably eat meals. However, finding the right combination of products that fit this design was a bit of a challenge. “The main obstacle was the space, because the whole apartment was pretty small,” she says. “We had to use a small compact fridge to fit it in because I wanted to use every inch of space. I also wanted to make sure we used all the corners since it’s kind of a U-shaped kitchen.”

It was imperative that this IKEA remodel kitchen featured a simple, timeless design with a functional flow. “Since this is a rental unit, we needed the kitchen to have broad appeal. We wanted functionality foremost and we were also trying to get as much storage space as possible in the kitchen without making it feel cramped and small,” he says. Therefore, Justin relied on IKD’s design services as well as Los Angeles, CA-based RTC Services, Inc. to install the IKEA cabinetry. He explains: “For us, having a designer was essential because we didn’t want to invest a ton of money in a kitchen only to find that there were errors like a dishwasher that opened up into a cabinet or a countertop or cabinet that didn’t fit an appliance. There are so many decisions that go along with designing a kitchen, we didn’t want to be responsible for measuring all aspects of our space and trying to master IKEA’s in-store Home Planner design tool, which we had read could take hours.” He concludes: “While searching online we ran into many horror stories of IKEA customers trying to design their own kitchens. Overall, the process sounded time consuming and prone to mistakes. We thought that for IKD’s price point, they offered an invaluable service. Not only were they very familiar with all of IKEA’s product lines, they also understood design fundamentals in a way that we didn’t.

Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Southern Pines, NC worked with Tod Reid to design a kitchen featuring Merillat Classic and Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen includes Merillat Classic cabinets in the Ralston door style with a Mist finish on the wall cabinets and a Dusk finish for the base, island, and pantry cabinets. The window seat cabinetry features Masterpiece cabinets in the Rockwell door style with a Slate finish. The kitchen design also incorporates Silestone Pearl Jasmine countertops, 12x14 Odine Silver floor tiles, 4x12 Metro White backsplash tiles, KitchenAid appliances, and a Whirlpool hood. Nancy explained that the project involved updating the kitchen and widening the opening to the family room. "They wanted to improve the work area and provide seating at the island. Previously, there was a table at the bay window. We built a window seat below the bay window and relocated all appliances. Installing the range on the diagonal allowed for workspace on both sides. The island was designed to not impede the walkway from the hall door. The microwave drawer enabled us to add a range hood and a unique tile backsplash." “The homeowners also wanted to incorporate a "watering station" for their dogs, so a drain was added near the water bowls. "I especially like the watering station; it's the first I've added to a kitchen remodel but probably won't be the last!" said Nancy. Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Southern Pines, NC worked with Tod Reid to design a kitchen featuring Merillat Classic and Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen includes Merillat Classic cabinets in the Ralston door style with a Mist finish on the wall cabinets and a Dusk finish for the base, island, and pantry cabinets. The window seat cabinetry features Masterpiece cabinets in the Rockwell door style with a Slate finish. The kitchen design also incorporates Silestone Pearl Jasmine countertops, 12x14 Odine Silver floor tiles, 4x12 Metro White backsplash tiles, KitchenAid appliances, and a Whirlpool hood. Nancy explained that the project involved updating the kitchen and widening the opening to the family room. "They wanted to improve the work area and provide seating at the island. Previously, there was a table at the bay window. We built a window seat below the bay window and relocated all appliances. Installing the range on the diagonal allowed for workspace on both sides. The island was designed to not impede the walkway from the hall door. The microwave drawer enabled us to add a range hood and a unique tile backsplash." “The homeowners also wanted to incorporate a "watering station" for their dogs, so a drain was added near the water bowls. "I especially like the watering station; it's the first I've added to a kitchen remodel but probably won't be the last!" said Nancy. Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Southern Pines, NC worked with Tod Reid to design a kitchen featuring Merillat Classic and Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen includes Merillat Classic cabinets in the Ralston door style with a Mist finish on the wall cabinets and a Dusk finish for the base, island, and pantry cabinets. The window seat cabinetry features Masterpiece cabinets in the Rockwell door style with a Slate finish. The kitchen design also incorporates Silestone Pearl Jasmine countertops, 12x14 Odine Silver floor tiles, 4x12 Metro White backsplash tiles, KitchenAid appliances, and a Whirlpool hood. Nancy explained that the project involved updating the kitchen and widening the opening to the family room. "They wanted to improve the work area and provide seating at the island. Previously, there was a table at the bay window. We built a window seat below the bay window and relocated all appliances. Installing the range on the diagonal allowed for workspace on both sides. The island was designed to not impede the walkway from the hall door. The microwave drawer enabled us to add a range hood and a unique tile backsplash." “The homeowners also wanted to incorporate a "watering station" for their dogs, so a drain was added near the water bowls. "I especially like the watering station; it's the first I've added to a kitchen remodel but probably won't be the last!" said Nancy. Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Southern Pines, NC worked with Tod Reid to design a kitchen featuring Merillat Classic and Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen includes Merillat Classic cabinets in the Ralston door style with a Mist finish on the wall cabinets and a Dusk finish for the base, island, and pantry cabinets. The window seat cabinetry features Masterpiece cabinets in the Rockwell door style with a Slate finish. The kitchen design also incorporates Silestone Pearl Jasmine countertops, 12x14 Odine Silver floor tiles, 4x12 Metro White backsplash tiles, KitchenAid appliances, and a Whirlpool hood. Nancy explained that the project involved updating the kitchen and widening the opening to the family room. "They wanted to improve the work area and provide seating at the island. Previously, there was a table at the bay window. We built a window seat below the bay window and relocated all appliances. Installing the range on the diagonal allowed for workspace on both sides. The island was designed to not impede the walkway from the hall door. The microwave drawer enabled us to add a range hood and a unique tile backsplash." “The homeowners also wanted to incorporate a "watering station" for their dogs, so a drain was added near the water bowls. "I especially like the watering station; it's the first I've added to a kitchen remodel but probably won't be the last!" said Nancy. Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

The couple not only wanted an IKEA kitchen that looked good, but worked well too. “The kitchen is meant for cooking, so the appliances and the cabinetry make it easier, efficient and more spacious,” Ashwin says. To accomplish this remodel, they replaced the pre-existing cooking range with Pietra Gray Quartz countertops from IKEA and moved the oven to be near the pantry area. This created additional food prep surface area, especially when working between the sink and cooktop stations. Ashwin explains: “The new countertop is fun to use! That’s our favorite part of the kitchen. We really needed more space, a larger sink and ease of use with new appliances.” To that end, they upgraded their sink choice to a 36-inch stainless steel sink, set just below a window. This provides plenty of natural light and makes the area much easier while preparing dinner or washing dishes. It also provides a nice view through the window that’s over the sink, and enhanced further by recessed can lighting overhead. This is notable because they opted not to purchase IKEA’s cabinet lighting system.

Within Dubai's exclusive villa enclaves, a breathtaking grand entrance foyer is setting new standards for opulent first impressions. This architectural masterpiece, recently completed by a leading fitout company Dubai homeowners trust for exceptional craftsmanship, combines dramatic water elements with artistic lighting to create an unforgettable welcome experience. The centerpiece of this extraordinary space is a monumental customized aquarium that spans two stories, creating a living wall of shimmering azure brilliance. Unlike conventional aquariums, this installation features a carefully curated ecosystem of exotic marine life swimming among custom-designed coral formations that echo the villa's architectural motifs. "Integrating such a substantial aquatic feature required precision engineering and flawless execution," explains the project director. "The structural requirements alone presented significant challenges, not to mention the advanced filtration systems concealed within the architectural elements." Complementing the aquarium are sophisticated water features designed to create a multisensory arrival experience. Subtle water channels embedded in the marble flooring guide visitors along the entrance path, while a sculptural water wall creates gentle acoustic ambiance that masks external noise. The landscape company Dubai residents recognize for innovative water integration collaborated closely with interior specialists to ensure seamless transitions between outdoor and indoor water elements. This partnership enabled the creation of a reflecting pool that begins in the exterior arrival court and continues into the foyer, visually connecting the spaces while maintaining environmental separation. Illuminating this aquatic wonderland is a constellation of customized chandeliers that cascade from the vaulted ceiling. Each fixture represents a bespoke artistic commission, featuring hand-blown glass elements and programmable LED technology that can transform the atmosphere from vibrant daytime brilliance to subtle evening ambiance.

Weymarn Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless galley dark wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Seattle with a drop-in sink, beaded inset cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, blue backsplash and beige countertops

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

Panel Type: SolarWorld SunModule Plus 275W Mono “My husband and I would like to share our experience with Zeev Zanzuri from JNA Solar Solutions. Zeev was referred to us by a friend who recommended him highly. At this point, we had already signed a contract with another solar company and were feeling very frustrated and disappointed. Zeev was very patient and understanding as we had many questions and concerns. We live in the city of San Marino, in the San Gabriel Valley, a city well known for being extremely difficult for contractors to get permits approved. The previous solar company misrepresented their prior experience with the city of San Marino and were unable to get our permits approved. This resulted in unnecessary delays and aggravation. Whatever Zeev promised, he delivered. He got the approvals from the city, explained our energy savings in detail and provided consistently great customer service. He was always responsive to our calls and followed up with us after the job was done to see if we had any problems. We are thrilled with our solar system and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Zeev Zanzuri and JNA Solar Solutions to friends, family, and neighbors.” San Marino, CA.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Southern Pines, NC worked with Tod Reid to design a kitchen featuring Merillat Classic and Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen includes Merillat Classic cabinets in the Ralston door style with a Mist finish on the wall cabinets and a Dusk finish for the base, island, and pantry cabinets. The window seat cabinetry features Masterpiece cabinets in the Rockwell door style with a Slate finish. The kitchen design also incorporates Silestone Pearl Jasmine countertops, 12x14 Odine Silver floor tiles, 4x12 Metro White backsplash tiles, KitchenAid appliances, and a Whirlpool hood. Nancy explained that the project involved updating the kitchen and widening the opening to the family room. "They wanted to improve the work area and provide seating at the island. Previously, there was a table at the bay window. We built a window seat below the bay window and relocated all appliances. Installing the range on the diagonal allowed for workspace on both sides. The island was designed to not impede the walkway from the hall door. The microwave drawer enabled us to add a range hood and a unique tile backsplash." “The homeowners also wanted to incorporate a "watering station" for their dogs, so a drain was added near the water bowls. "I especially like the watering station; it's the first I've added to a kitchen remodel but probably won't be the last!" said Nancy. Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Built-In Refrigerator
Kitchen - traditional kitchen idea in New York

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.