Constructed in two phases, this renovation, with a few small additions, touched nearly every room in this late ‘50’s ranch house. The owners raised their family within the original walls and love the house’s location, which is not far from town and also borders conservation land. But they didn’t love how chopped up the house was and the lack of exposure to natural daylight and views of the lush rear woods. Plus, they were ready to de-clutter for a more stream-lined look. As a result, KHS collaborated with them to create a quiet, clean design to support the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement. To transform the original ranch house, KHS proposed several significant changes that would make way for a number of related improvements. Proposed changes included the removal of the attached enclosed breezeway (which had included a stair to the basement living space) and the two-car garage it partially wrapped, which had blocked vital eastern daylight from accessing the interior. Together the breezeway and garage had also contributed to a long, flush front façade. In its stead, KHS proposed a new two-car carport, attached storage shed, and exterior basement stair in a new location. The carport is bumped closer to the street to relieve the flush front facade and to allow access behind it to eastern daylight in a relocated rear kitchen. KHS also proposed a new, single, more prominent front entry, closer to the driveway to replace the former secondary entrance into the dark breezeway and a more formal main entrance that had been located much farther down the facade and curiously bordered the bedroom wing. Inside, low ceilings and soffits in the primary family common areas were removed to create a cathedral ceiling (with rod ties) over a reconfigured semi-open living, dining, and kitchen space. A new gas fireplace serving the relocated dining area -- defined by a new built-in banquette in a new bay window -- was designed to back up on the existing wood-burning fireplace that continues to serve the living area. A shared full bath, serving two guest bedrooms on the main level, was reconfigured, and additional square footage was captured for a reconfigured master bathroom off the existing master bedroom. A new whole-house color palette, including new finishes and new cabinetry, complete the transformation. Today, the owners enjoy a fresh and airy re-imagining of their familiar ranch house. Photos by Katie Hutchison

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Adrià Goula
Inspiration for a contemporary deck remodel in Barcelona

A transitional kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel countertops, and a black patterned backsplash. This type of kitchen design is perfect for those who want a modern look that still feels comfortable and familiar. Handcrafted in the USA. Amish made.

Mimi, a Gessi collection with soft and sensual feminine curves, and sophisticated architectural lines, speaks a familiar language without being retro. Sketched in sweeping lines that echo classical harmony, and reinterpreted in the signature minimalism of Gessi, Mimi is comfortably at home in today’s transitional, modern and traditional bathrooms. The minimalist Mimi collection comes in chrome and brushed nickel as well as a special 24-karat gold finish tough enough to stand up to use in top hotels around the world. For highest quality and durability, Gessi uses only solid brass for its faucets. Like all the Gessi Collections, Mimi is available with a wide array of matching bathroom fittings including showers, body sprays, tub fillers; and pedestal, vessel and drop-in lavatory sinks. To complete the sophisticated look of the modern bathroom, Gessi offers Mimi accessories such as mirrors, soap and lotion dispensers, benches, towel racks and more. All Gessi products are manufactured in Italy in the company’s environmentally respectful facility, Gessi Park.

This inviting living room encapsulates traditional design with its rich texture and a soothing palette. The plush, neutral-toned Perigold sectional exudes comfort, with blue accents adding a regal touch that elevates the ensemble. Centering the room, Crate & Barrel’s troupe square pine wood coffee table stands as a hallmark of classic style, surrounded by seating that beckons guests to linger. Black-framed artwork adds visual interest, creating a gallery-like effect that’s both personal and elegant. The fireplace, a timeless feature, anchors the living space with its warm presence. This traditional living room with blue accents is a curated blend of the familiar and the sophisticated—ideal for moments of leisure and gracious hosting.

The client wished to have a kitchen that was elegant but still proved to be an ideal space to raise their family. An open concept living, dining and kitchen with large windows looking out into the forest welcomes plenty of natural light into the space. This layout allows the designer to work more freely and design a kitchen that is simple yet elegant. Through the use of a neutral colour palette with a hint of a blue under tone on the finish of the island cabinetry and hood, the designer further opens up the space and emphasizes the high ceiling. This helps draw and welcome guests and family into the kitchen. The detail of the double shaker door style on the cabinets offers a contemporary or transitional style. This gives a sense of familiarity making the space feel more at home.

Stylish Laundry Room Wallpaper Installation in Escondido, CA Upgrade your laundry space with custom wallpaper installation designed for Escondido homes. We specialize in creating durable, beautiful wallcoverings that transform utilitarian laundry rooms into inviting, functional spaces with Southern California flair. Why Choose Wallpaper for Your Escondido Laundry Room? ✔ SoCal-Tough Materials – Fade-resistant & humidity-controlled vinyl ✔ Small Space, Big Impact – Eye-catching designs that brighten tight areas ✔ Easy Maintenance – Wipeable surfaces perfect for laundry splashes ✔ Quick Style Upgrade – Most installations completed in just one day Popular Escondido Laundry Room Styles: ? California Casual – Sunny citrus prints or palm tree motifs ? Desert Modern – Cactus silhouettes & warm earth tones ? Rustic Farmhouse – Faux shiplap or linen-look textures ? Vibrant & Bold – Mexican tile-inspired patterns or colorful geometrics Our Premium Services Include: ✅ Appliance-Fit Installation – Precise cuts around washers/dryers ✅ Humidity-Tested Adhesives – Won't peel in steamy conditions ✅ Peel-and-Stick Options – Perfect for rentals (removes cleanly) ✅ Complete Wall Prep – Repairing drywall for flawless results The Escondido Advantage: • Local Design Expertise – Familiar with Escondido home styles • Quick Turnaround – Refresh your space before weekend guests arrive • Mobile Consultations – We bring samples to your home Serving: Downtown Escondido, Hidden Meadows, Felicita & surrounding areas

This collection combines the upscale cool of a revitalized downtown area w/ the relaxed demeanor of familiar forms & finishes. Crafted of figured cherry Veneers and hardwood solids in a dark, lightly distressed Sumatra finish with custom oiled bronze hardware to complete the casual look.

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel. A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement. The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space. If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity. It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap. Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

If you are familiar with our work, at Berry Design Build, you know that to us each project is more than just sticks and mortar. Each home, each client, each family we have the privilege to work with becomes part of our team. We believe in the value of excellence, the importance of commitment, and the significance of delivery. This renovation, along with many, is very close to our hearts because it’s one of the few instances where we get to exercise more than just the Design Build division of our company. This particular client had been working with Berry for many years to find that lifetime home. Through many viewings, agent caravans, and lots of offers later she found a house worth calling home. Although not perfectly to her personality (really what home is until you make it yours) she asked our Design Build division to come in and renovate some areas: including the kitchen, hall bathroom, master bathroom, and most other areas of the house; i.e. paint, hardwoods, and lighting. Each project comes with its challenges, but we were able to combine her love of mid-century modern furnishings with the character of the already existing 1962 ranch. Photos by Nicole Cosentino

A majestic addition to a modest cape home Tucked into a tree-lined street in Rockland County, this once-modest gambrel cape was reimagined to meet the evolving needs of a growing family while preserving its familiar charm. The transformation includes a new two-car garage with a gambrel-roofed addition above, a welcoming front porch, and a complete interior and exterior renovation. Together, these elements bring a new sense of balance, presence, and grace — a modern evolution of classic suburban form. Inside, walls were opened and rooms reconnected to invite light and ease of movement. The kitchen, once small and uninviting, now anchors the first floor — a warm and generous hub where family life unfolds from morning to night. Living, dining, and work spaces flow naturally, supporting both connection and quiet. Above the new garage, a serene primary suite offers retreat and rhythm, gently elevated above the hum of daily life. With its expanded front porch, refined roofline, and carefully layered materials, the home feels renewed yet rooted — a timeless composition of family, comfort, and place.

One of the most popular hardwood floor finishing which offers Tom & Peter Flooring is provided by WOCA. If you’ve decided that you want a natural looking wooden floor that is lacquer-free, then the likelihood is that you’ve chosen oil as your way of protecting your wood and making your floor look great at the same time. WOCA for wood flooring comes in various forms and is a great way of making sure that your wood is protected, but at the same time looks natural. A highly popular as well as effective way of treating wood floors, oils effectively penetrate into the wood and in some cases harden into the surface of the floor to stop damage and to maintain the wood in its optimum condition. WOCA Oil finish hardwood flooring has taken the United States market by in 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down in 2016 and now. Here are some of the most common questions we have regarding this type of finish which we will I’m to answer in today’s my blog: Is oil finish as durable as traditional factory urethane finishes with aluminum oxide? When it comes to durability, oil finish flooring tackles the issue with a completely different method. The penetrating oil serves as protection from moisture and wear while allowing the user to feel the wood grains in their bare feet. If compared directly to factory finished aluminum oxide finish, the oil finish flooring will not perform as well to abrasion and impact. However, the beauty of this finish is the fact that it will camouflage any scratches which will inevitably accumulate over time. Will this finish evaporate over time and will this be harmful for indoor air quality? Another concern for oil finished floors its effect on indoor air quality. For on-site applications, some varieties suggest several coats which typically require the residents to be out of the home due to mild odors. However, there are factory finished UV-cured or single coat applications which lessen the downtime. Despite the odors produced during the drying process, oil finish floors rank amongst the lowest for VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. Certain brands even boast true zero VOC. This fact alone makes oil finished floors one of the best options for green building solutions. “WOCA products are certified by independent laboratories, the German Institute for Biological Building Materials, and are in accordance with DIN–Norm 53–160. WOCA WoodCare Denmark products meet or exceed the most stringent U.S. standards for volatile organic compounds.” –WOCA Oil Finish Manufacture Does this type of finish require additional maintenance which I am not familiar with? For weekly cleaning, oiled floors use a special cleaner which contains an oil and soap mixture. After a period of 12-18 months some oil may evaporate causing the wood grains to appear dry. An additional layer of oil can be reapplied to keep the floor looking fresh. Although oil finished floors require more involvement in periodic maintenance in high traffic areas, this maintenance can be done much easier than the equivalent of an onsite sand and refinish. WOCA Master Color Oil contains pigment, which provides a single-step hardwood floor staining process. Laying down the stain and the finish in one step. This product comes 14 different colors, from Black to Extra White, and you can mix them freely to create various color palettes that will meet the demands of any job. Below are some pictures of the finished job…

Living beyond the walls of your home turned out to be quite fabulous for this Avon, Connecticut family thanks to the artistic envision of Michael Gotowala and his talented Preferred Properties crew. Outdoor Living designer and master builder of outdoor kitchens Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by PREFERRED PROPERTIES reveals to us the insight of multi level outdoor living beyond the walls of your home outdoors. The secret to success for this trendy outdoor living lifestyle is to understand the family members lifestyle indoors and portray that familiar lifestyle outdoors. This equates to endless hours of quality time spent outdoors. Gotowala's artistic display of outdoor living fabulously can be for entertaining large catered gatherings or intimate outdoor kitchens for fun with family and friends. The Difference in Outdoor Living and Living outdoors fabulously begins with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. For more outdoor kitchen inspiration see our website where Great Outdoor kitchen ideas begin. THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE at www.OUTDOORKITCHENDESIGNER.com

A masculine space for entertaining with familiar features of a “man cave” is rendered in highly sophisticated materials and details. Bleached walnut and weathered wood furniture add warmth, while blackened steel construction and spill-proof Marmoleum flooring speak to the darkness of the TV’s on the media wall. Cork flooring delineates a bar area from the rest of the room and is a reference to the beverage of choice. A new men’s room is conveniently located nearby. Photo by David Duncan Livingston

Elegant, eclectic, timeless villa interior design for a family with two small children, in cozy - familiar style associations, with artful, contemporary touches and subtly integrated, sophisticated details.

Large rustic brown two-story wood house exterior idea in Denver with a shed roof and a metal roof

A majestic addition to a modest cape home Tucked into a tree-lined street in Rockland County, this once-modest gambrel cape was reimagined to meet the evolving needs of a growing family while preserving its familiar charm. The transformation includes a new two-car garage with a gambrel-roofed addition above, a welcoming front porch, and a complete interior and exterior renovation. Together, these elements bring a new sense of balance, presence, and grace — a modern evolution of classic suburban form. Inside, walls were opened and rooms reconnected to invite light and ease of movement. The kitchen, once small and uninviting, now anchors the first floor — a warm and generous hub where family life unfolds from morning to night. Living, dining, and work spaces flow naturally, supporting both connection and quiet. Above the new garage, a serene primary suite offers retreat and rhythm, gently elevated above the hum of daily life. With its expanded front porch, refined roofline, and carefully layered materials, the home feels renewed yet rooted — a timeless composition of family, comfort, and place.

This Fishtown rowhome refresh started with a familiar challenge: a sea of flat, builder-grade finishes in predictable “millennial gray.” Our clients wanted a home that felt layered, lived-in, and full of personality. They desired something that reflected their style, not just a resale checklist. We reworked two full floors to bring in warmth, character, and thoughtful details. On the main level, we introduced rich textures, vintage accents, and a more intentional palette that made a statement. Powerful punches of wallpaper, uniquely different but graciously coordinating, transformed key moments into standout spaces. Upstairs, updates to the kitchen and dining area emphasized comfort, functionality, and bold sophistication. Throughout, we layered in materials with soul: natural woods, warm metals, and handcrafted touches, all while keeping the overall footprint and layout intact. Built-ins in the living area brought much-needed storage, style, and a grounded focal point to anchor the space. The result is a home that feels personal yet timeless. A clear departure from the gray-washed norm.