Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Martha O'Hara Interiors, Interior Design & Photo Styling | Troy Thies, Photography Please Note: All “related,” “similar,” and “sponsored” products tagged or listed by Houzz are not actual products pictured. They have not been approved by Martha O’Hara Interiors nor any of the professionals credited. For information about our work, please contact design@oharainteriors.com.

Clean and classic exterior with textural elements. 2010 A-List Award for Best Home Remodel Originally the interior of the house consisted of small, dark rooms, low ceilings and dyed in the wool traditional furnishings. Recognizing the “solid bones” of the house the couple embarked on a renovation to expand the living space, reconfigure existing rooms and bring light into the structure. The overarching plan was to bring fresh, modern, sustainable materials to use in every room. This would create a unique contrast to traditional materials like dry stacked stone and reclaimed wood floors and ceilings. A subtle play of unexpected textures is apparent throughout the house.

An extreme makeover turns an unassuming lanai deck into an outdoor oasis. These Bonita Bay homeowners loved the location of their home, but needed it to fit their current lifestyle. Because they love to entertain, they wanted to maximize their outdoor space—one that would accommodate a large family and lots of guests. Working with Progressive Design Build, Mike Spreckelmeier helped the homeowners formulate a list of ideas about what they wanted to achieve in the renovation; then, guided them through the process of planning their remodel. The renovation focused on reconfiguring the layout to extend the outdoor kitchen and living area—to include a new outdoor kitchen, dining area, sitting area and fireplace. Finishing details comprised a beautiful wood ceiling, cast stone accents, and porcelain tile. The lanai was also expanded to include a full size bocce ball court, which was fully encased in a beautiful custom colonnade and screen enclosure. With the extension of the outdoor space came a need to connect the living area to the existing pool and deck. The pool and spa were refinished; and a well thought-out low voltage remote-control relay system was installed for easy control of all of the outdoor and landscape lighting, ceiling fans, and hurricane shutters. This outdoor kitchen project turned out so well, the Bonita Bay homeowners hired Progressive Design Build to remodel the front of their home as well. To create much needed space, Progressive Design Build tore down an existing two-car garage and designed and built a brand new 2.5-car garage with a family suite above. The family suite included three bedrooms, two bathrooms, additional air conditioned storage, a beautiful custom made stair system, and a sitting area. Also part of the project scope, we enlarged a separate one-car garage to a two-car garage (totaling 4.5 garages), and build a 4,000 sq. ft. driveway, complete with landscape design and installation.

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional full sun front yard water fountain landscape in San Francisco.

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Refurbishment and extension to a Grade II Listed house in the Cotswolds. The extension to the rear benefits from a roof lantern and glazed doors to ensure plenty of natural light is brought into the newly-created open-plan kitchen living area. The project also included works to an adjacent barn, including the installation of solar slates to provide electricity. Other renewable technologies used in the property include a pellet boiler for heating and hot water.

The extension and remodelling of this Grade II Listed manor house inspired some key architectural innovations including a bespoke, curved glass atrium which has discreetly enclosed the central courtyard and a glass staircase and landing to give additional access and improved circulation. The wholly glass staircase was the first to be installed in the UK. Spanning the courtyard, the double-glazed, high tech glass roof creates a dramatic, contemporary feature within the building's historic core. The new space has created a large kitchen and dining room at the centre of the home that links up with the rest of the house. Natural light has been optimised and with the original walls in full view, there is an inside outside quality to the new internal space. Spratley & Partners managed the build on site and the interior design. The brief also addressed the property's environmental credentials and included the addition of a ground source pump for heating and solar panels.

The extension and remodelling of this Grade II Listed manor house inspired some key architectural innovations including a bespoke, curved glass atrium which has discreetly enclosed the central courtyard and a glass staircase and landing to give additional access and improved circulation. The wholly glass staircase was the first to be installed in the UK. Spanning the courtyard, the double-glazed, high tech glass roof creates a dramatic, contemporary feature within the building's historic core. The new space has created a large kitchen and dining room at the centre of the home that links up with the rest of the house. Natural light has been optimised and with the original walls in full view, there is an inside outside quality to the new internal space. Spratley & Partners managed the build on site and the interior design. The brief also addressed the property's environmental credentials and included the addition of a ground source pump for heating and solar panels.

Custom copper awning with extensions for hanging plants,

A detail of the link between the original farmhouse and the extension. Photocredit, Ed RS Aves
Example of a large farmhouse one-story brick exterior home design in Oxfordshire with a tile roof

Refurbishment and extension to a Grade II Listed house in the Cotswolds. The extension to the rear benefits from a roof lantern and glazed doors to ensure plenty of natural light is brought into the newly-created open-plan kitchen living area. The project also included works to an adjacent barn, including the installation of solar slates to provide electricity. Other renewable technologies used in the property include a pellet boiler for heating and hot water.

The patio space as part of a rear extension and renovation to a Grade II listed townhouse in Bath. The patio provides an entertaining space immediatly adjacent to the house. A terraced step and planting bed retains and provides access to further garden spaces beyond. Seating was integrated into the steps and terraced retaining wall. Different format of paving slabs were used to subtly divide the space into a path and outdoor living area.

The extension and remodelling of this Grade II Listed manor house inspired some key architectural innovations including a bespoke, curved glass atrium which has discreetly enclosed the central courtyard and a glass staircase and landing to give additional access and improved circulation. The wholly glass staircase was the first to be installed in the UK. Spanning the courtyard, the double-glazed, high tech glass roof creates a dramatic, contemporary feature within the building's historic core. The new space has created a large kitchen and dining room at the centre of the home that links up with the rest of the house. Natural light has been optimised and with the original walls in full view, there is an inside outside quality to the new internal space. Spratley & Partners managed the build on site and the interior design. The brief also addressed the property's environmental credentials and included the addition of a ground source pump for heating and solar panels.

The extension and remodelling of this Grade II Listed manor house inspired some key architectural innovations including a bespoke, curved glass atrium which has discreetly enclosed the central courtyard and a glass staircase and landing to give additional access and improved circulation. The wholly glass staircase was the first to be installed in the UK. Spanning the courtyard, the double-glazed, high tech glass roof creates a dramatic, contemporary feature within the building's historic core. The new space has created a large kitchen and dining room at the centre of the home that links up with the rest of the house. Natural light has been optimised and with the original walls in full view, there is an inside outside quality to the new internal space. Spratley & Partners managed the build on site and the interior design. The brief also addressed the property's environmental credentials and included the addition of a ground source pump for heating and solar panels.

4N912 Greenwood Lane, St. Charles, IL - $749,900 - Ultra-scenic and ultra private! This gorgeous 1.25 acre estate features a stunning 4 bedroom, 4.1 bath home with over 6,400 square feet of living space, 5 car garage, in-ground pool, 6 person hot tub, extensive landscaping, fire pit, and beautiful wooded ravine with creek. The home, located on a private cul-de-sac lot, features a formal living room with fireplace, huge family room with fireplace, inviting sunroom, first floor master suite, en-suite bedroom, loft, and incredible views from every room. The walk-out basement features a fireplace, wet bar, workout room and bath. Additional amenities include 9' ceilings, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, custom trim, sconce lighting, skylights, dual zoned heating and air, patio, expansive 2 tier trex deck, security system, central vac, sprinkler system, and too many recent improvements to list. The grounds feature plenty of green space as well as an abundance of mature trees, plantings, and wildlife. This serene location is unexpectedly close to shopping, restaurants, and downtown St. Charles. This one is an absolute must see! Listed by Peggy Brown, managing Broker - Sevenoaks Realty- 201 Houston Street, Suite 103 in Batavia, IL.

It’s always an excellent idea to renovate some corners in your house if you are looking to sell. It is crucial for you to remember to ‘sell it right,’ which means doing the upgrades and renovations accurately for your homebuyer. Some of the best home renovations — for instance, an upgraded kitchen, remodeled bathroom, or a new deck — can get expensive. This is why it is important to know what kind of return you might expect before you think of taking on a remodeling project.   Top Home Renovations in 2021   If you have smartly budgeted for major remodeling projects, here are some of the upgrades that will immediately add more value to your homes:   Kitchen Remodel   People can go wild in kitchen renovations, but it’s not always required. A kitchen remodeling, if done the right way, is certain to add more value to your home. You will love an even higher return if you remodel a kitchen with traditional designs and builds. This will include replacing your cabinets, refrigerator, stove, flooring, and even sinks and faucets.   Nowadays, a kitchen’s functionality and convenience are becoming more and more important. For instance, lowered light switches, cabinets, and racks can make it simpler for an elderly person or someone with a disability to explore the kitchen if they use a wheelchair. Cabinets with a hydraulic system can make it possible for a homeowner to move their position, ensuring it’s available within your reach no matter your mobility level.   Improving Your Outdoor Appeal   The outdoor appeal is basically the first impression of your home. That old front door, cracked driveway won’t help potential buyers feel an eternal connection with your home. The outdoor appeal can be improved with the application of new paint, gardening, or attractive landscaping. Hence, it is necessary for you to consider beforehand what improvements you are going to make, what you can do yourself, and what you need to outsource.   Begin where your property meets the main street. Are the walls well maintained and colored? Do driveways need to be redone or just a quick water blast to clean them? Do you need to paint your door or close the cracks on them or add a couple of planter pots to give more warmth to the entrance?   More expensive things include painting your house, adding a deck, or fencing your property. Before taking these costly projects, do seek professional advice about whether this will increase your property’s value.   Including Square Footage to Your Home   As mentioned above, expensive additions in remodeling include house extensions and reconfigurations of old rooms. This may lead to a larger ROI, so they’re worth assessing. You may want to add a bedroom, build a home office corner, make the living area by making it more spacious or add another bathroom. These extensions all add value to your home, but you’ll want to guarantee that you can get your money back once you sell the property.   Big projects are more expensive. Homeowners may want to think of applying for a home improvement loan to help them finance the project or ensure they have financial assistance in case the cost goes over the board.   The Bottom Line   Renovating your home not only adds to your excitement but can also increase your home’s value over time, as well.   If you live in an urban area, your listing might be competing with other upgraded homes to grab the buyers’ attention. When you refinance your house, for example, remodeling will be considered when a property appraiser studies your home’s current market value. Higher home value means you’ll get more equity and a lower loan-to-value ratio. Moreover, you might even be able to cancel personal mortgage insurance payments earlier than expected.   When you decide to sell your home, buyers will expect to see a clean, attractive home with modern updates that’s ready to move in.

DARIS BROWN, WRITER If you think choosing the right shingle color is hard, you are not alone. With an endless array of colors to choose from, getting started can be difficult. But don't worry – we’ve got a great system to help you pick the perfect shingle color. If you are ready to look at shingles in a way you probably never have before, our three-step process can help you choose the color that works best for your home. Choosing By Style Before you can start flipping through a collection of earth-tone samples, you need to determine which shingle style best fits your home — and your price range. You don’t want to waste time falling in love with a beautiful shade of brown (let’s say hickory) if it’s not available in a style you like. Most homeowners are not aware that shingles come in different styles, including three-tab, architectural and slate-look. Three-Tab: These shingles have a traditional, flatter look and are considered the most affordable. They also are available in a wide range of colors. Slate: These asphalt shingles, as the name reveals, are meant to mimic the look of slate but offer the easy care and affordability of asphalt. They come in a variety of colors. Architectural: Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural shingles are manufactured with aesthetic appeal in mind. Layered to resemble wood shake, they are thicker and provide a more dimensional, interesting look than traditional three-tab shingles. Choosing By Features By comparing the available features, you can systematically narrow down your options to determine the best shingle available. Here are a few features to consider: Class 4 Impact Resistance – Do you live in an area of the country that experiences regular hailstorms? Class 4 impact resistant shingles deliver superior impact resistance to help protect your home during hail season. Algae Resistance – How humid is your region? Do you see roofs all around you with black streaks? Shingles manufactured with Scotchgard Protector help resist those ugly black streaks caused by algae. High Wind Rating – Do you get nervous anytime a strong wind blows? Shingles with high wind resistance, up to 130 mph wind speed coverage, are designed to stay put – and look good in the process. Comprehensive Warranty Protection – Do you want to feel secure with your investment? For maximum protection and warranty coverage, have a full roof system installed and receive an enhanced Premium Protection Period for total peace of mind. Extensive Color Palette – Are you tired of plain black shingles? Get ready for an explosion of color, as there are many different options available. Woodland Green, Desert Shake, Burnt Sienna and Pristine Oyster are a few of the many great colors you can explore. Choosing By Color By choosing shingle style and features first, you can significantly narrow your list of colors. Now go through your shortened list and pick the best color for your home. You could match the shingle color to your shutters or door. If you want to enhance your home, lighter-colored shingles can help make it look bigger. Finally, opposites attract. If you have a light-colored home, you can go with a dark roof, and vice-versa for a dark-colored home. The contrast will help your entire home pop. Don’t be afraid to spread out your sample boards and make a side-by-side comparison to help with your selection process. Likewise, don't hesitate to lean on the advice of your roofer. Years of experience and thousands of homes roofed make them a valuable resource for homeowners trying to choose the best shingle color. Choosing By Heart While many homeowners will go straight to color, taking a methodical approach often provides better results. Take a step back. Decide what style you truly like and what features are available, and the best color for your home will fall right into your lap. Visit AtlasRoofing.com for a quick start to your shingle selection process. Atlas offers a broad range of beautiful designer colors and styles, which makes it easy to find an exceptional shingle to boost your home’s curb appeal.

A patio space as part of a larger rear extension and renovation to a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse in Bath. The patio space adjacent to the house is part of a long terraced garden. The patio provides an easily accessible entertaining space.