1950's mid-century modern beach house built by architect Richard Leitch in Carpinteria, California. Leitch built two one-story adjacent homes on the property which made for the perfect space to share seaside with family. In 2016, Emily restored the homes with a goal of melding past and present. Emily kept the beloved simple mid-century atmosphere while enhancing it with interiors that were beachy and fun yet durable and practical. The project also required complete re-landscaping by adding a variety of beautiful grasses and drought tolerant plants, extensive decking, fire pits, and repaving the driveway with cement and brick.

Based on extensive interviews with our clients, our challenges were to create an environment that was an artistic mix of traditional and clean lines. They wanted it dramatic and sophisticated. They also wanted each piece to be special and unique, as well as artsy. Because our clients were young and have an active son, they wanted their home to be comfortable and practical, as well as beautiful. The clients wanted a sophisticated and up-to-date look. They loved brown, turquoise and orange. The other challenge we faced, was to give each room its own identity while maintaining a consistent flow throughout the home. Each space shared a similar color palette and uniqueness, while the furnishings, draperies, and accessories provided individuality to each room. We incorporated comfortable and stylish furniture with artistic accents in pillows, throws, artwork and accessories. Each piece was selected to not only be unique, but to create a beautiful and sophisticated environment. We hunted the markets for all the perfect accessories and artwork that are the jewelry in this artistic living area. Some of the selections included clean moldings, walnut floors and a backsplash with mosaic glass tile. In the living room we went with a cleaner look, but used some traditional accents such as the embroidered casement fabric and the paisley fabric on the chair and pillows. A traditional bow front chest with a crackled turquoise lacquer was used in the foyer.

The new glass extension contrasts beautifully with the original 1920's house. The 2 metre over hang creates a verandah, which not only serves a practical purpose but gives the new building an elegant feel.

Based on extensive interviews with our clients, our challenges were to create an environment that was an artistic mix of traditional and clean lines. They wanted it dramatic and sophisticated. They also wanted each piece to be special and unique, as well as artsy. Because our clients were young and have an active son, they wanted their home to be comfortable and practical, as well as beautiful. The clients wanted a sophisticated and up-to-date look. They loved brown, turquoise and orange. The other challenge we faced, was to give each room its own identity while maintaining a consistent flow throughout the home. Each space shared a similar color palette and uniqueness, while the furnishings, draperies, and accessories provided individuality to each room. We incorporated comfortable and stylish furniture with artistic accents in pillows, throws, artwork and accessories. Each piece was selected to not only be unique, but to create a beautiful and sophisticated environment. We hunted the markets for all the perfect accessories and artwork that are the jewelry in this artistic living area. Some of the selections included clean moldings, walnut floors and a backsplash with mosaic glass tile. In the living room we went with a cleaner look, but used some traditional accents such as the embroidered casement fabric and the paisley fabric on the chair and pillows. A traditional bow front chest with a crackled turquoise lacquer was used in the foyer.

Shaker style kitchen in Sunnyvale. The kitchen features built in Sub-Zero appliances, lots of soft close drawers, and floating shelves with LED lighting.

Shade Degges
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary open concept dark wood floor and brown floor living room remodel in Los Angeles with white walls, a standard fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

A new gourmet kitchen along with octagon shaped dining room was added overlooking the ocean.
Example of a large beach style porcelain tile and beige floor open concept kitchen design in Miami with an island, a drop-in sink, raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, glass tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Who wouldn’t feel at home in this beautiful eat-in kitchen? The open layout, classy white cabinets, and the sunshine streaming through the window combine to form a kitchen that’s functional and welcoming—the kind where you can easily imagine the delightful odors of fresh herbs and fragrant spices mingling with the laughter and chatter of friends and family. A closer look reveals a number of design ideas that might be useful if you’re looking to create a similar ambiance in your own home. This design takes advantage of natural sunlight by pairing a large window with a light color scheme that makes the space bright and airy. No detail has been overlooked, as evidenced by the glass hexagon backsplash that serves as an accent. The interlocking glass tiles create a lovely pattern of varying neutral tones that gives just the right amount of energy to the space. The cabinets are equally as tasteful, finished with an elegant crown molding. The gray cabinet island with white cabinets creates a stylish two-tone look and adds a splash of contrast, and the spacious island includes both an impressive cooktop and a bar—adding more seating and extra workspace. Of course, the countertop is an essential part of any kitchen, but it’s especially important to choose the right one in a design that includes such a large work surface. The kitchen countertop has to look good—after all, it’s the element that ties the rest of the design together—but it also needs to be a functional surface that can handle the tomato sauce or red wine spill, whatever might be on the kids’ sticky fingers, and the wear and tear of everyday use. A quartz kitchen, like this one, doesn’t have to sacrifice its looks to be practical. This luxurious white quartz countertop with delicate, swirling gray veins ties the color palette together and glitters in the sun—but it’s also a durable work space. The engineered stone used here is a Calacatta Verona Quartz, one of many choices that Sky Marble offers as part of our extensive quartz selection. Calacatta Verona Quartz has all the classic beauty of marble, doesn’t require ongoing maintenance, and can stand up to many, many years of family dinners or cocktail parties. And it’s an excellent choice for this kitchen’s color scheme, maximizing the natural lighting and seamlessly uniting the gray of the island and the white of the other cabinets. Altogether, this contemporary kitchen style strikes the perfect balance between elegance and warmth. At Sky Marble in Sterling, VA, we can help you find just the right look to make your kitchen ideas for make your new build or renovation project a similar success.

This kitchen underwent an extensive renovation with all new appliances and adding a picture window in the back to provide a view of the backyard. The DEANE designer loves how the color palette is a departure from the current all-white trend. The rustic, industrial custom hood is made with burnished metals that play off the oil-rubbed bronze hardware and the lighting fixtures. The over-sized island is made from two book-matched pieces of Taj Mahal quartzite – a natural stone, practically indestructible and a fantastic choice for this family of five. The island cabinets reflect the growing trend of using warmer, natural tones. The Weimaraner color which was used anchors the island against the creamy perimeter cabinets. The large island was designed with the owners’ love of cooking and making pasta together as a family.

This finished basement flex space is designed to adapt effortlessly to a variety of lifestyles and needs. Built in cabinetry and integrated storage provide a clean, organized foundation while maintaining a modern, streamlined appearance. The open layout allows the room to function as a home office, media room, playroom, or creative workspace, offering flexibility without sacrificing design. Neutral finishes and durable flooring create a bright, welcoming environment that feels both practical and polished, making this lower level a valuable extension of the home’s living space.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

An updated, contemporary neutral palette that is chic, practical, and an extension of my personal style while being highly functional.
Powder room - contemporary powder room idea in New York

"You only do this once in a lifetime.” That’s what this homeowner told our team about their historic brownstone renovation in downtown Jersey City, and we took it to heart. This project was more than just a renovation; it was also an act of great creativity and care. After all, when you do something once in a lifetime, you want to do it right. We were fortunate to work with a homeowner with a clear, precise vision. Prior to hiring us, the homeowner partnered with an architect to design the space. As such, we handled the project management and practical implementation of the plans. (We also ensured that the work met the requirements of the Jersey City Historic Preservation Board.) This extensive remodel included demolition and rebuilding of a one-story addition in preparation for the installation of a new, modern kitchen. After replacing the original load-bearing brick wall with a steel header, we also leveled the floors and added new engineered hardwood flooring with hydronic radiant underfloor heating for chilly winter days. A completely redone lighting and electrical plan included LED recessed light fixtures, recessed speakers, and motorized transom windows … perfect for letting in some fresh air to compliment the gorgeous natural light streaming in from the skylights. The finished space juxtaposes sleek, ultramodern European appliances, finishes, cabinetry, and fixtures with original, historic woodwork. We completed a new, modern powder room installation and also installed historic door casings, baseboard mouldings, and plaster mouldings. The homeowner was thrilled with the end result, celebrating every carefully-chosen detail. Together, we admired the different light fixtures, the custom kitchen cabinetry, and how the built-in hall closet left just enough space to preserve the historic mouldings beside it. Moments like those make all the hard work worthwhile. Do you have a compelling vision for your space? Then contact Houseplay today; we’ll help to take your idea from concept to finished product. Photo credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

With all of the allure of an American classic, the Bristol design remains a symbol of distinction and grace. Bristol cabinetry represents the pinnacle in the fusion of cabinet design and fine wood. This traditional design is enhanced with a raised center panel not just on the doors but on the drawers as well, creating a casual early American feel.

This fully finished lower level was designed to extend the home’s livability while maintaining the same level of craftsmanship and intention found throughout the main living spaces. Every detail balances durability, comfort, and understated elegance—transforming what could be purely functional square footage into a true extension of the home. The entry and stair landing sets the tone with warm wood stair treads, soft neutral wall tones, and patterned tile flooring that adds visual interest while standing up to daily use. Recessed lighting keeps the space bright and welcoming, creating a seamless transition between levels. A private guest bedroom offers a quiet retreat, featuring plush carpeting, layered recessed lighting, and a modern ceiling fan for year-round comfort. Neutral finishes and clean lines create a calming environment suitable for guests or extended stays. The custom mudroom and storage area was designed with organization in mind, incorporating built-in cabinetry, open shelving, and durable work surfaces. This space provides an efficient drop zone while maintaining a polished, cohesive aesthetic. In the bathroom, modern simplicity takes center stage. Large-format tile, a frameless glass shower enclosure, and integrated shower niches deliver both style and function. A floating vanity paired with a round illuminated mirror adds a contemporary touch, while neutral materials keep the space timeless. The laundry and utility room blends practicality with thoughtful design, offering custom cabinetry, generous counter space, and durable flooring in a layout that makes everyday tasks feel effortless and organized. From guest accommodations to utility spaces, this lower level was designed to feel intentional—not secondary—resulting in a flexible, refined environment that enhances the home’s overall functionality and comfort.

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

In the heart of Delray Beach, FL, lies a cabinetry store that is redefining the essence of functional spaces with its unparalleled custom cabinets and cabinetry services. Liberty Kitchen Design stands as a beacon of creativity and craftsmanship, offering homeowners the unique opportunity to bring their dream kitchens and bathrooms to life. The pursuit of perfect cabinetry design is not just about storage solutions; it's about creating spaces that reflect the homeowner’s personal style while ensuring every inch serves a purpose. With an extensive array of options, from classic to contemporary, every design is executed with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that each piece is as beautiful as it is functional. The foundation of Liberty Kitchen Design's offering is deeply rooted in its expertise and a relentless commitment to quality. For over seven years, this cabinetry store has been transforming homes across South Florida, guided by a philosophy that combines aesthetic elegance with practicality. Through the use of top-tier brands and materials, the team elevates every project they undertake, ensuring durability and timeless appeal. The service goes beyond mere installation; it’s a comprehensive design solution that takes into account the homeowner's lifestyle, the architecture of the space, and the seamless integration of form and function. Embarking on a cabinetry project with Liberty Kitchen Design is a journey of collaboration. From the initial consultation to the final reveal, the team works closely with each client to understand their vision and requirements. This personalized approach allows for a fully customized space that meets every need and desire. Whether it’s a kitchen that becomes the heart of the home or a bathroom that offers a sanctuary of relaxation, the focus is always on tailoring the space to suit the individual. The meticulous planning and design process, combined with the skilled craftsmanship, results in cabinetry that not only serves its purpose but also adds value and character to the home. Selecting the right partner for your cabinetry needs is crucial in achieving the home of your dreams. Liberty Kitchen Design in Delray Beach, FL, with its proven track record and commitment to excellence, offers a service that goes beyond the conventional. It’s not just about fitting cabinets; it’s about creating a space that you love, a space that reflects who you are, and a space that stands the test of time. With an unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and a portfolio that speaks volumes of their capability, stepping into their showroom is the first step towards realizing the potential of your home. Explore the possibilities and watch as your vision is transformed into reality, with every detail meticulously catered to, ensuring your home is exactly as you imagined, if not better.

Babcock Custom Pools: Transforming Backyards into Oases with Palms If you seek a swimming pool that boasts an interplay of aesthetics, elegance, and proficiency, then Babcock Custom Pools is the solution you have been searching for. Our pool-crafting experts boast an extensive portfolio of pool designs that have consistently surpassed our clients’ anticipations. A hallmark of our designs is the seamless integration of palms – an element we passionately incorporate into our custom creations. At Babcock Custom Pools, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Our process, from the initial consultation to the final construction, is a testament to our pursuit of excellence. Our team of experts consists of seasoned professionals who possess a passion for creating pools that not only serve their practical purpose but are also visually stunning. Palms are a ubiquitous choice for pool landscaping, and for good reason. They add a tropical vibe to your outdoor space, and their presence imbues the area with a lush, serene atmosphere. Furthermore, palms provide the much-needed shade on a hot summer day. At Babcock Custom Pools, we wholeheartedly embrace the use of palms in our designs, and our clients rave about the results. We appreciate the fact that each of our clients is unique, and their pool designs should be a reflection of their individuality. As such, we work closely with our clients to craft customized designs that align with their specific needs and preferences. Whether you envision a sleek, minimalist design or a more traditional aesthetic, our team will collaborate with you to create a pool that perfectly embodies your style. When it comes to constructing pools, we use only the finest materials and the most advanced technologies. Our pools are designed to be durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, ensuring that you can spend more time relishing in the pool and less time maintaining it. In conclusion, if you desire a custom pool design that is both beautiful and functional, Babcock Custom Pools is the answer. Our team of experts will work hand-in-hand with you to create a pool that exceeds your expectations. And, of course, we will not forget to incorporate an ample amount of palms – because we love palms and are confident that you will too. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

This modern, kitchen remodel reimagined the main living spaces for better flow, function, and everyday living. We removed the existing fireplace and framed a new wall in its place to create a cleaner, more cohesive layout. The back door was relocated to improve circulation, the French doors were removed, and the existing beam was updated to accommodate the new open-concept design. The kitchen was expanded into the former dining room, creating a spacious gathering place with abundant custom storage and thoughtfully designed workspaces. A garden window bump-out brings in natural light while providing the perfect spot for growing fresh herbs year-round. To maximize functionality, we also extended the mudroom into the garage, creating a dedicated drop zone with additional storage for busy daily routines. The finished space combines warm natural materials, clean modern lines, and practical design solutions, resulting in a home that feels both inviting and highly functional.