After six years of living in their Huntley IL home, Chris and Meghan were tired of their dark, dingy, outdated kitchen and it was finally time for a long-anticipated change. “The kitchen is the place where we live, it’s where we do everything,” Meghan said. “It was important that it be a space where we wanted to be.” Meghan loves cooking and enjoys including their girls in healthy meal prepping, this led them to want a brighter, more enjoyable kitchen with increased functionality and improved storage. For Chris especially, the laundry room was an entirely dysfunctional eyesore. “We had a washer and a dryer, but it was all kind-of cobbled together!” Chris said. “There were always laundry piles everywhere, we weren’t really sure what we wanted to do in there, but it was time for us to make a change.” The mess of the space was stressful every time they walked in the door from the garage each day. Kids’ backpacks and shoes piled up haphazardly in the makeshift boot-bench closet left the family feeling disorganized and stressed. They needed space for folding clothes and locker cubbies to help keep the family organized. Having known Christine and Todd in the Huntley community for years, Chris and Meghan were familiar with their work. “We already trusted them personally and having seen their projects for years we knew they did top notch work. After we reviewed the initial round of designs, we knew that hiring them was definitely the right choice,” Meghan and Chris said. Although Chris had done a lot of work in their home himself, the kitchen and laundry room renovation was such a large undertaking that he didn’t want to steal time away from his family to spend what would surely be many long weekends doing the job himself. “That would not have been a wise choice for us,” Chris laughed. “Our designer, Michelle was very, very, easy to work with; anything we wanted to see or weren’t sure about, she went above and beyond to make this easy for us. She was easy to get hold of and always quick to respond,” the couple said. Michelle pulled ideas that mirrored the couple’s taste and style and was adept at directing the couple to limited choices that didn’t overwhelm them and kept the process moving. “I have a hard time making decisions. Michelle made the decision-making process so easy. I loved how she listened to what I liked and then presented three great options for me to choose from,” Meghan said. The main objectives for the kitchen were better storage solutions, they wanted the space to reflect their lifestyle and taste, and they wanted it to last for years with low maintenance. One of the first steps in creating a more functional kitchen was relocating the refrigerator, creating an improved workflow for the busy family. “We didn’t know that we could even move the refrigerator to a new location where it is now, that was something that we never would have thought of,” Chris said. “The new refrigerator location makes the kitchen feel so much bigger. We didn’t add any space, but our whole kitchen with the new design just seems like it’s so much larger than before!” Meghan said. The perimeter mist colored cabinets helped warm and brighten the entire room, while the graphite colored cabinets on the island added contrast. Using this fresh, clean color palette satisfied the couple’s desire for a bright space that was the exact opposite of what they had before. Organization accessories were also added to the cabinets such as a spice drawer tray and roll outs to create hidden convenience. “I absolutely love the hidden spices – it makes cooking so much more enjoyable!” Chris said. “And all the pull outs, and the double trash bin, who would think you could get so excited about organization!” the couple said in unison. One thing they hated in their original kitchen was how dark the space felt. Added lighting on the ceiling with the new light fixtures combined with the lighter cabinetry colors throughout solved this problem. “Our new kitchen has this warm, almost cozy feeling that our old kitchen never had, it’s just a space that I love spending my time in now,” Meghan said. The light airy feeling was accentuated with the use of floating white shelves on either side of the decorative range hood. “We have so much cabinetry space, the new design is amazing we actually have more storage space than we will ever need,” Meghan said. The island was extended to create more work surface and added space for stool seating. “The new island changes how we live. Now the kids can be in the kitchen with us, doing homework, eating breakfast, and the three of us have special dinners there when Chris is working late,” Meghan said. The Carrara Marmi Quartz countertops were chosen because they are, not only beautiful, but are made from hard-working material that doesn’t require maintenance. The white subway tile backsplash that wraps to the ceiling behind the focal point cooktop range/hood compliments the crisp white countertops perfectly, while brushed brass hardware and light fixtures keep the design fresh and new. The couple had a few fears at the beginning of the project, as most homeowners do. Their biggest fear was being out of their kitchen and laundry room for an extended time. The crew made it very easy for the family to work in a limited space keeping the washer and dryer hooked up the majority of the time, and also getting appliances working with minimal downtime. “They above and beyond accommodated us to get us through the process,” Meghan said. “They did a great job making sure we were as comfortable as possible throughout the process,” Chris added. “Our project manager DJ did a great job. He was very good at updating us on schedule changes, getting guys in as quickly as possible. Everyone that stepped in the house was nice and did great work,” said Chris. They thought Advance’s carpenter was phenomenal and were impressed when he took a conceptual idea from a photograph and worked with designer Michelle to create a one of a kind range/hood that has become the topic of conversation with friends and family who visit the new kitchen. “He was in our house literally every day for several weeks. He was easy to work with and good at what he did,” Meghan and Chris said. The focal point of the kitchen; a hand-crafted, custom-built ventilation hood was clad with handpicked reclaimed barnwood. Advance Design’s carpenter built the framework and the cladding to create a one-of-a-kind design element that the couple loves. “I think it was especially fun for him to create something unique from scratch, showcasing his talent in this area,” Meghan said. “I love that my kitchen is not like everyone else’s. I got to pick out the wood on my hood and watch it being built and was able to choose what pieces of wood went where on it. It’s totally unique.” Red Oak flooring was toothed-in throughout the kitchen and the rest of the first floor anywhere changes were made. Then the whole floor was refinished to tone down the orange undertones in the existing floor stain, ultimately changing the color complexion of the entire first floor. The result is a completely new feeling to the entire home. Renovating the laundry room was extremely important to Meghan and Chris, but they had trouble visualizing what the possibilities were for the seemingly small space. Michelle produced beautiful 3D illustrations that helped them envision the space in a whole new way. “I must have told Michelle 100 times that I am a visual person, seeing the designs in 3D made it so easy to make decisions and see what we could really do with our space,” Meghan said. A dividing wall and doorway were removed between the existing laundry room and hallway formerly containing a coat closet, providing space to design specialized graphite colored cabinetry matching the kitchen island to house custom storage cubbies for each family member. Adding the tall utility cabinetry in the new laundry area helped solve the storage issue, tucking away cleaning supplies, household items, and even the cat got its own cubby. “I love how everything is now hidden in its own space. I can’t tell you how much I hated coming home and seeing everything sitting around on counters,” Chris said. Electrical outlets were planned for the inside of utility cabinets, so devices could charge in hidden locations. Stacking the washer and dryer allowed for wider countertop space to provide a folding area and a special space for clothes to hang. “The way I do laundry has been completely transformed! I can actually fold clothes and hang them now right out of the washer and dryer,” Meghan said. “The end result in the kitchen and the laundry/mud room was an updated light and bright space, with a smarter work flow that better meets the needs of this family,” Michelle said. “I would totally recommend Advance Design,” Meghan said. “Sometimes I sit and just look at my kitchen and laundry room and think ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to live here!’ It’s an understatement to say we love our new space.”

Set within one of Mercer Island’s many embankments is an RW Anderson Homes new build that is breathtaking. Our clients set their eyes on this property and saw the potential despite the overgrown landscape, steep and narrow gravel driveway, and the small 1950’s era home. To not forget the true roots of this property, you’ll find some of the wood salvaged from the original home incorporated into this dreamy modern farmhouse. Building this beauty went through many trials and tribulations, no doubt. From breaking ground in the middle of winter to delays out of our control, it seemed like there was no end in sight at times. But when this project finally came to fruition - boy, was it worth it! The design of this home was based on a lot of input from our clients - a busy family of five with a vision for their dream house. Hardwoods throughout, familiar paint colors from their old home, marble countertops, and an open concept floor plan were among some of the things on their shortlist. Three stories, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, one large laundry room, a mudroom, office, entryway, and an expansive great room make up this magnificent residence. No detail went unnoticed, from the custom deck railing to the elements making up the fireplace surround. It was a joy to work on this project and let our creative minds run a little wild!

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

LQDesign Studio, LLC
Inspiration for a large transitional master white tile marble floor bathroom remodel in Wilmington with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, marble countertops and white walls

The white wainscot and aqua wall color add to this beach themed bathroom.
Inspiration for a coastal light wood floor bathroom remodel in Phoenix with an integrated sink, beaded inset cabinets, dark wood cabinets, solid surface countertops and blue walls

Custom Cabinets, hardwood floors, kitchen, open dining room to kitchen, Moen , Kohler, Composite countertops, crystal lighting, Viking appliances
Example of a mid-sized classic l-shaped kitchen design in Cleveland with a single-bowl sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Andrea Cary
Inspiration for a huge country open concept medium tone wood floor family room remodel in Atlanta with white walls, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Greg Reigler
Example of a mid-sized minimalist master multicolored tile and porcelain tile pebble tile floor bathroom design in Other with distressed cabinets, a wall-mount toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink and quartz countertops

Charles J. Barr House (William E. Drummond & Louis Guenzel, 1912) Distinctly Prairie style, with an efficient floor plan highlighted by a grand central fireplace.

Birdhouse and purple clematis accents a gated garden entrance. A colorful cottage gate garden to make the heart glad that it is spring.
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Tatjana Plitt
Mid-sized mid-century modern white split-level concrete house exterior photo in Melbourne with a clipped gable roof and a metal roof

Family room - family room idea in Austin

David Gray
Entryway - mediterranean entryway idea in San Diego

Tommy White, Boone NC
Inspiration for a modern kitchen remodel in Charlotte

Alyssa Kirsten
Mid-sized trendy master medium tone wood floor bedroom photo in New York with white walls and no fireplace

Kuiken Brothers Federal Style Crown Moulding KB317 (3/4" x 4-1/2"). Request a copy of the Kuiken Brothers Moulding & Millwork catalog www.kuikenbrothers.com/moulding

Set within one of Mercer Island’s many embankments is an RW Anderson Homes new build that is breathtaking. Our clients set their eyes on this property and saw the potential despite the overgrown landscape, steep and narrow gravel driveway, and the small 1950’s era home. To not forget the true roots of this property, you’ll find some of the wood salvaged from the original home incorporated into this dreamy modern farmhouse. Building this beauty went through many trials and tribulations, no doubt. From breaking ground in the middle of winter to delays out of our control, it seemed like there was no end in sight at times. But when this project finally came to fruition - boy, was it worth it! The design of this home was based on a lot of input from our clients - a busy family of five with a vision for their dream house. Hardwoods throughout, familiar paint colors from their old home, marble countertops, and an open concept floor plan were among some of the things on their shortlist. Three stories, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, one large laundry room, a mudroom, office, entryway, and an expansive great room make up this magnificent residence. No detail went unnoticed, from the custom deck railing to the elements making up the fireplace surround. It was a joy to work on this project and let our creative minds run a little wild!

Inspired by a British campaign style antique, this queen iron canopy bed from Magnolia Homes' Traditional Collection has a clean-lined, sturdy character that will be the highlight of your room. Curved cathedral style corners on the head and foot panels add an extra style detail. - Bed has round iron vertical posts with finials. - Curved canopy frame joins with center circle. - Head and footboard metal panels have curved corners. - Includes headboard, footboard, canopy frame, rails, and slats. - Metal is finished in a dark Blackened Bronze. The beautiful Magnolia Home line was designed exclusively by Joanna Gaines to convey her fresh, unique design style that embodies her lifestyle of home and family. Each piece falls onto a specific genre: Boho, Farmhouse, French Inspired, Industrial, Primitive or Traditional. Painted finishes and wood stains are offered that replicate the look of age-worn vintage patinas. This piece is part of her Traditional genre, which is today's interpretation of yesterday's timelessness. It blends traditional lines with unexpected flare. This style's details are familiar, but simplified and freshened with easygoing finishes.

This lovely little modern farmhouse is located at the base of the foothills in one of Boulder’s most prized neighborhoods. Tucked onto a challenging narrow lot, this inviting and sustainably designed 2400 sf., 4 bedroom home lives much larger than its compact form. The open floor plan and vaulted ceilings of the Great room, kitchen and dining room lead to a beautiful covered back patio and lush, private back yard. These rooms are flooded with natural light and blend a warm Colorado material palette and heavy timber accents with a modern sensibility. A lyrical open-riser steel and wood stair floats above the baby grand in the center of the home and takes you to three bedrooms on the second floor. The Master has a covered balcony with exposed beamwork & warm Beetle-kill pine soffits, framing their million-dollar view of the Flatirons. Its simple and familiar style is a modern twist on a classic farmhouse vernacular. The stone, Hardie board siding and standing seam metal roofing create a resilient and low-maintenance shell. The alley-loaded home has a solar-panel covered garage that was custom designed for the family’s active & athletic lifestyle (aka “lots of toys”). The front yard is a local food & water-wise Master-class, with beautiful rain-chains delivering roof run-off straight to the family garden.