Karen was an existing client of ours who was tired of the crowded and cluttered laundry/mudroom that did not work well for her young family. The washer and dryer were right in the line of traffic when you stepped in her back entry from the garage and there was a lack of a bench for changing shoes/boots. Planning began… then along came a twist! A new puppy that will grow to become a fair sized dog would become part of the family. Could the design accommodate dog grooming and a daytime “kennel” for when the family is away? Having two young boys, Karen wanted to have custom features that would make housekeeping easier so custom drawer drying racks and ironing board were included in the design. All slab-style cabinet and drawer fronts are sturdy and easy to clean and the family’s coats and necessities are hidden from view while close at hand. The selected quartz countertops, slate flooring and honed marble wall tiles will provide a long life for this hard working space. The enameled cast iron sink which fits puppy to full-sized dog (given a boost) was outfitted with a faucet conducive to dog washing, as well as, general clean up. And the piece de resistance is the glass, Dutch pocket door which makes the family dog feel safe yet secure with a view into the rest of the house. Karen and her family enjoy the organized, tidy space and how it works for them.

Example of a country staircase design in Charlotte

Ask a kitchen designer in Chicago which countertop question comes up most and you will hear the same answer: white or off-white quartz, and which shade. Homeowners walk into showrooms with a photo saved on their phone, usually a bright, veined slab from a magazine spread, and leave an hour later realizing there are a dozen versions of that same look. The confusion is not about taste. It is about the fact that "white quartz" covers a huge range of patterns, undertones, and price points, and nobody explains the differences before the sale. Older bungalows and newer builds alike are getting stripped of their dated laminate and butcher block in favor of quartz, and the reasons are practical rather than trendy. Quartz does not need sealing, resists the kind of staining that granite can suffer over decades, and holds up to the freeze-thaw humidity swings that Chicago basements and kitchens go through every year. Once a homeowner commits to quartz, though, the real decision starts: which white, and does the pattern justify the difference in cost. This piece walks through three specific slabs that keep showing up in Chicago renovation projects, why designers reach for them in different rooms, and what actually separates a flat white surface from one with real depth. None of this requires a design background to follow. It is mostly about paying attention to how a slab behaves under kitchen lighting, how busy the vending gets, and how it photographs versus how it looks in person. Why White Quartz Took Over Chicago Kitchens Ten years ago, granite dominated Chicago kitchen remodels almost by default. It was durable, it looked expensive, and every fabricator in the metro area carried a wide range of colors. Quartz has since taken over that position, and the shift happened faster than most contractors expected. Engineered stone gave homeowners a more predictable surface, since natural granite varies slab to slab while quartz is manufactured to a consistent pattern batch after batch. The other driver is light. Chicago winters are long and gray, and a lot of kitchens, especially in older two-flats and courtyard buildings, do not get much direct sun. A dark granite countertop in a dim kitchen can make the whole room feel smaller. White and light-toned quartz reflects what little natural light comes through the windows, and it makes a galley kitchen or a north-facing space feel noticeably brighter without touching the cabinetry or the layout. There is also a resale argument that local real estate agents bring up constantly. White quartz photographs well for listings, reads as updated and low-maintenance to buyers touring in person, and does not compete visually with whatever cabinet color the next owner might prefer. It is a safer bet than a bold veined marble look or a colored quartz that might feel dated in five years. Arctic White and the Cost Question Among the flatter, more uniform whites, arctic white quartz price comes up constantly in budget conversations because the slab sits at a more approachable point than the heavily veined Italian-marble-inspired patterns. It reads as clean and bright without the busy movement that some homeowners find overwhelming in a small kitchen. Fabricators in the Chicago area tend to keep it in stock precisely because demand stays steady across both new construction and remodel projects. Part of what keeps this slab affordable relative to its heavily patterned cousins comes down to manufacturing complexity. A quartz surface with minimal veining and a consistent white base is simpler to produce at scale than one that mimics the irregular, high-contrast movement of natural Calacatta marble. That production difference shows up directly in what a homeowner pays per square foot, and it is worth asking a fabricator to walk through that pricing before assuming every white quartz costs the same. Homeowners planning a full kitchen, including an island, backsplash, and perimeter counters, often use a flatter white like this specifically because it lets other elements carry the visual interest. A patterned tile backsplash or a bold cabinet color reads more clearly against a calm countertop than against one already fighting for attention with heavy veining. Designers frequently pair simpler whites with statement lighting fixtures for exactly this reason. What Makes Calacatta Patterns Different Calacatta refers to a family of marble originally quarried in Italy, known for a bright white background broken up by bold, often gold-toned veining that moves in thick, dramatic streaks rather than thin gray lines. Natural Calacatta marble is soft, porous, and expensive to maintain, which is exactly why quartz manufacturers spent years developing engineered versions that replicate the look without the upkeep headaches. The challenge with any Calacatta-style quartz is getting the veining to look organic instead of printed. Early generations of engineered stone struggled with repetitive patterns that gave away the fact the slab was manufactured rather than cut from actual marble. Modern digital printing and layering techniques have closed that gap considerably, and the better Calacatta-inspired quartz lines now vary the veining across each slab batch so two counters in the same kitchen do not look identical. Chicago designers gravitate toward Calacatta patterns for kitchens that function as the visual centerpiece of an open floor plan, which describes a large share of the gut renovations happening in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, and the North Shore suburbs. When the kitchen island is visible from the living room and dining area, a dramatic veined surface becomes part of the home's overall design language rather than a purely functional work surface. Calacatta Arno Under Kitchen Lighting One of the more popular options in this category, calacatta arno quartz, balances a warm white base with soft gray and gold veining that avoids looking too stark under the cooler LED lighting common in newer Chicago builds. Homeowners touring showrooms sometimes make the mistake of judging a slab entirely under warm incandescent lighting, then get surprised when the same surface looks slightly different once installed under their kitchen's actual fixtures. What separates this particular pattern from flatter competitors is how the veining clusters rather than spreading evenly across the slab. That clustering mimics the way real quarried marble forms, with denser mineral deposits in some sections and cleaner stretches in others. Fabricators cutting a large island slab from a single piece will often orient the pattern intentionally so the busiest veining lands somewhere visually interesting rather than getting cut off at an edge. Because the background reads warmer than a stark white, this pattern tends to pair well with brass or matte gold hardware, a combination that has been showing up repeatedly in Chicago kitchen remodels over the past few renovation seasons. Cabinet painters report a similar trend, with more clients requesting warm white or greige cabinet colors specifically because they complement this kind of veined quartz better than a cooler, blue-toned white would. Silestone's Version of the Calacatta Look Manufacturers compete directly in this Calacatta-inspired category, and silestone eternal calacatta gold represents one brand's specific take on the pattern, distinguished by richer gold veining set against a brighter white base than some competing slabs in the same family. Silestone has built a reputation around anti-bacterial surface treatments in addition to the standard quartz durability, a detail some homeowners specifically ask about for kitchens used heavily by families with young children. The veining in this particular slab tends to run in longer, more continuous lines compared to the clustered pattern found in some other Calacatta-style options, which gives large island surfaces a sense of visual flow from one end to the other. Fabricators working with bigger islands, the kind increasingly common in open-concept Chicago remodels, often favor patterns like this because there is less need to worry about seams interrupting a busy, disconnected pattern. Price positioning for this slab tends to sit toward the upper end of the engineered quartz category, reflecting both the brand's manufacturing process and the complexity of replicating that continuous gold veining consistently across production batches. Homeowners weighing this option against other Calacatta-style quartz should ask their fabricator directly about batch availability, since premium patterns sometimes have longer lead times than standard stock colors. Living With Quartz Day to Day Beyond how a slab looks in a showroom or a listing photo, the daily experience of owning quartz countertops matters more once the renovation dust settles. Quartz resists scratching far better than laminate and holds up to the acidic spills, hot pans, and general abuse of an active kitchen without the sealing maintenance that natural stone requires every year or two. That low-maintenance reputation is a large part of why quartz overtook granite in the first place. Heat resistance is a detail that gets less attention than it should. While quartz handles moderate heat well, manufacturers generally recommend using a trivet or pad for very hot pots straight off the stove, since sudden temperature shock can occasionally cause stress marks in the resin binder that holds the engineered stone together. This is a minor precaution rather than a major limitation, but it is worth mentioning to anyone assuming quartz is entirely indestructible. Cleaning routines stay simple across almost every pattern in this category. A damp cloth and mild soap handle daily messes, and the nonporous surface means wine, coffee, and tomato-based sauces do not soak in the way they can with unsealed granite or marble. Homeowners moving from an older stone counter often mention how much less they worry about everyday spills once quartz is installed, which is a quality-of-life change that rarely makes it into the initial design conversation. Choosing Between the Three There is no single correct answer among these three slabs, and that is exactly why they keep coming up together in the same design conversations across Chicago renovation projects. A flatter white with minimal veining suits kitchens where other elements need to carry the visual interest, while a bolder Calacatta-inspired pattern makes sense when the countertop itself is meant to be the centerpiece of an open floor plan. Budget matters too, and it is worth having a direct conversation with a fabricator about where each option lands before falling in love with a specific slab in a showroom. Lighting, cabinet color, and how the kitchen connects to the rest of the home all play into which pattern will actually look right once installation is finished rather than just in a photo. Whatever direction a homeowner leans, seeing a full slab in person under actual kitchen lighting remains the single most useful step before signing off. Photos only go so far once the countertop is sitting in the room it will live in for years.

What feeling did you get when you walked up to your new home for the first time? That feeling that made you "just know" it was right. Safety, security, familiarity, was a smell, a breeze, or just a feeling of comfort? Now you can bring all those things with you. The things that really make a house a home. We will help you meet the neighbors, know when packages arrive, make sure the dogs are getting walked, fed, and aren't eating the couch. Make sure the babysitter, gets the kids home and they get their homework done. You'll see how technology can be easy, bring your family together, keeping them safe and sound.

Crisp white subway tile is offset by black accents in this stunning master bathroom remodel. Custom double vanity with Quartz countertop, Brizo faucets in matte black, open shower and herringbone porcelain tile wood flooring.

Robin Stancliff photo credits. This kitchen had a complete transformation, and now it is beautiful, bright, and much more accessible! To accomplish my goals for this kitchen, I had to completely demolish the walls surrounding the kitchen, only keeping the attractive exposed load bearing posts and the HVAC system in place. I also left the existing pony wall, which I turned into a breakfast area, to keep the electric wiring in place. A challenge that I encountered was that my client wanted to keep the original Saltillo tile that gives her home it’s Southwestern flair, while having an updated kitchen with a mid-century modern aesthetic. Ultimately, the vintage Saltillo tile adds a lot of character and interest to the new kitchen design. To keep things clean and minimal, all of the countertops are easy-to-clean white quartz. Since most of the cooking will be done on the new induction stove in the breakfast area, I added a uniquely textured three-dimensional backsplash to give a more decorative feel. Since my client wanted the kitchen to be disability compliant, we put the microwave underneath the counter for easy access and added ample storage space beneath the counters rather than up high. With a full view of the surrounding rooms, this new kitchen layout feels very open and accessible. The crisp white cabinets and wall color is accented by a grey island and updated lighting throughout. Now, my client has a kitchen that feels open and easy to maintain while being safe and useful for people with disabilities.

Contemporary modern two story home in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, featuring fully equipped guest house with panorama views of Down Town Los Angeles Photography by Eric Charles.

Karen was an existing client of ours who was tired of the crowded and cluttered laundry/mudroom that did not work well for her young family. The washer and dryer were right in the line of traffic when you stepped in her back entry from the garage and there was a lack of a bench for changing shoes/boots. Planning began… then along came a twist! A new puppy that will grow to become a fair sized dog would become part of the family. Could the design accommodate dog grooming and a daytime “kennel” for when the family is away? Having two young boys, Karen wanted to have custom features that would make housekeeping easier so custom drawer drying racks and ironing board were included in the design. All slab-style cabinet and drawer fronts are sturdy and easy to clean and the family’s coats and necessities are hidden from view while close at hand. The selected quartz countertops, slate flooring and honed marble wall tiles will provide a long life for this hard working space. The enameled cast iron sink which fits puppy to full-sized dog (given a boost) was outfitted with a faucet conducive to dog washing, as well as, general clean up. And the piece de resistance is the glass, Dutch pocket door which makes the family dog feel safe yet secure with a view into the rest of the house. Karen and her family enjoy the organized, tidy space and how it works for them.

The Doggy Bathroom is the only indoor potty solution for small breeds, including males who lift their leg. Its cosy environment makes dogs feel safe and secure, all while offering visual privacy for pets and parents alike. Doggies can independently use their bathroom when they naturally need to and on their own.

A dreamy, nurturing space designed to grow with a little one. This Kirkland nursery blends softness, warmth, and intention — creating a room that feels safe, comforting, and deeply personal for both parent and child.

We painted this bedroom white and make it look bigger. We used engineered wood flooring made of plywood with stable dimensions and a hardwood veneer. which adds beauty and makes them feel safe and comfortable in the bedroom. We updated this bedroom, considering closet space. we added a walk-in closet and it was a fantastic investment because it adds storage and extra space.

The Doggy Bathroom is the only indoor potty solution for small breeds, including males who lift their leg. Its cosy environment makes dogs feel safe and secure, all while offering visual privacy for pets and parents alike. Doggies can independently use their bathroom when they naturally need to and on their own.

This couple was very excited to get a new deck as they enjoy entertaining their family outside. They also have a dog so they asked us to install a dog gate. They now feel safe letting their dog out on the deck and into the yard. This deck was built out of low maintenance Trex Select decking in Saddle color. They picked pressure treated wood with aluminum balusters for the railing.

The Doggy Bathroom is the only indoor potty solution for small breeds, including males who lift their leg. Its cosy environment makes dogs feel safe and secure, all while offering visual privacy for pets and parents alike. Doggies can independently use their bathroom when they naturally need to and on their own.

24/7 Emergency Residential Locksmith Specialist. Repair, Installation, and Lock-Outs Services. Your home should be the #1 place you feel safe and secure in. After all, your home is where your loved one is and where all you store all personal belongings. A & H Locksmith Services can tailor security measures according to your needs. The safety and security of your home or apartment in San Diego CA or the Surrounding Areas is our only priority. House lockouts have to be the most common service we provide out of all of our lockout services. Being locked out of your home can happen so easily in a split second that almost every call we get is for an emergency house lockout.

Karen was an existing client of ours who was tired of the crowded and cluttered laundry/mudroom that did not work well for her young family. The washer and dryer were right in the line of traffic when you stepped in her back entry from the garage and there was a lack of a bench for changing shoes/boots. Planning began… then along came a twist! A new puppy that will grow to become a fair sized dog would become part of the family. Could the design accommodate dog grooming and a daytime “kennel” for when the family is away? Having two young boys, Karen wanted to have custom features that would make housekeeping easier so custom drawer drying racks and ironing board were included in the design. All slab-style cabinet and drawer fronts are sturdy and easy to clean and the family’s coats and necessities are hidden from view while close at hand. The selected quartz countertops, slate flooring and honed marble wall tiles will provide a long life for this hard working space. The enameled cast iron sink which fits puppy to full-sized dog (given a boost) was outfitted with a faucet conducive to dog washing, as well as, general clean up. And the piece de resistance is the glass, Dutch pocket door which makes the family dog feel safe yet secure with a view into the rest of the house. Karen and her family enjoy the organized, tidy space and how it works for them.

Your country, your province, your city, your neighborhood, your house… What could be more important than the place where your family feels safe and secure? Everything starts from here. No matter which part of the city you live, you always take care of your house, working on upgrades and design. Yes, it could be quite expensive to renovate or re-design your house. The budget could easily exceed thousands and thousands of dollars. However, there is a way to make your house comfortable, modern and fancy while keeping money in your pocket! How? We are here to help and answer this question. We are the team of Design Matters - CANADIAN WEB/TELEVISION SERIES based in Manitoba, produced by RTV Media and features unusual interior design projects. The professional team of the Design Matters - top builders, hosts, interior designers, producers, and filming crew - bring their extraordinary expertise, creativity and reno how-how to completely transform the rooms into a modern family space. The TV/web show helps the customer to: • reduce the renovation budget • develop and implement the concept of the modern interior design • learn useful renovation tips and techniques • find the right materials and tools supplier • prepare the house for the market The show is aired by local cable Shaw Spotlight in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Amazon Prime Video worldwide. All episodes of the show are also available online. The target audience for our show is the following: -builders -construction companies -renovation companies -homeowners -production companies -suppliers -small businesses

The Doggy Bathroom is the only indoor potty solution for small breeds, including males who lift their leg. Its cosy environment makes dogs feel safe and secure, all while offering visual privacy for pets and parents alike. Doggies can independently use their bathroom when they naturally need to and on their own.

Karen was an existing client of ours who was tired of the crowded and cluttered laundry/mudroom that did not work well for her young family. The washer and dryer were right in the line of traffic when you stepped in her back entry from the garage and there was a lack of a bench for changing shoes/boots. Planning began… then along came a twist! A new puppy that will grow to become a fair sized dog would become part of the family. Could the design accommodate dog grooming and a daytime “kennel” for when the family is away? Having two young boys, Karen wanted to have custom features that would make housekeeping easier so custom drawer drying racks and ironing board were included in the design. All slab-style cabinet and drawer fronts are sturdy and easy to clean and the family’s coats and necessities are hidden from view while close at hand. The selected quartz countertops, slate flooring and honed marble wall tiles will provide a long life for this hard working space. The enameled cast iron sink which fits puppy to full-sized dog (given a boost) was outfitted with a faucet conducive to dog washing, as well as, general clean up. And the piece de resistance is the glass, Dutch pocket door which makes the family dog feel safe yet secure with a view into the rest of the house. Karen and her family enjoy the organized, tidy space and how it works for them.