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Homesteads are about function as much as beauty, and button bush delivers on both fronts. Its willingness to grow in wet areas makes it perfect for landscape spots that other plants avoid. Those damp corners aren’t wasted space when you plant button bush — they become intentional, lively parts of your yard.
The shrub’s dense form also doubles as a natural screen or border. Planted in groups, button bush makes a soft edge against lawns, gardens, or pathways. Its rounded shape and textured blooms maintain structure without feeling overly formal. That’s especially nice in landscapes that lean toward natural design.
But function doesn’t end there. In wetter areas, button bush helps reduce erosion and standing water. Its roots absorb moisture and give soil something to cling to, which makes it a practical choice in drainage swales or near water features. Pollinators and wildlife find value here too — that’s an added bonus that makes landscapes feel balanced and alive.
If your homestead includes gardens, fields, or natural plantings, button bush fits right in. It holds space well, supports life, and brings seasonal interest without demanding constant care — qualities that make it a smart, functional choice.
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The client wanted a kitchen that created a warm and cozy feeling where family and friends would feel right at home. She sought a kitchen that was of the highest quality cabinetry and a designer that would really listen to her needs and wants. The Pewter glaze overtones on the cherry wood tie in with the distressed gray island; the Silestone Quartz Soapstone around the perimeter provides a neutral background, while the island has a more dramatic polished granite with cream, rose and brown tones to become a beautiful centerpiece.
The cabinets are heavily detailed with beaded sides and backs, inset doors, chamfered corners wherever possible, toe valances and applied mouldings around the entire base to add a rich, handcrafted look. The heights of the cabinets vary to reduce uniformity, adding to the casual charm. An apron front sink also contributes to the country look. The desk is particularly fanciful with it’s mullion doors, French Country open shelves with beaded sides and back, curved and beaded valance and drawer with multiple drawerheads / applied molding. We also incorporated doors that come all the way to the counter to hide the usual home office clutter. The lower part of the desk includes many drawers of various sizes and even a special locking file drawer. The beautiful dark gray island boasts French Country open shelves with arched and beaded valances, a fluting detail on each corner of the cookbook shelves, toe details, lots of beadboard, and a variety of storage options for cooking utensils, pans, and serving dishes.

J Design Group
The Interior Design of your office is a very important part of your daily living and your successful dream project.
A good office design promotes good health and helps you accomplish your daily goals by catering to the needs of your employees both mentally and physically. It will create a warm and friendly environment in which they feel relaxed and happy. As a result, workers feel better physically because the environment in which they are working is less stressful. It will also provide a safe environment and promote healthy work habits that will reduce fatigue, aches and pain and accidents.
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J Design Group – Miami Interior Design Firm – Modern – Contemporary
Contact us: (305) 444-4611
http://www.JDesignGroup.com
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From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Imagine a home nestled in Colorado’s mountains that feels as enduring as the landscape itself. East Watch is that place – efficient, tough, and thoughtfully designed to make mountain living effortless and enjoyable. It’s where modern ideas meet nature’s demands, creating a space that’s both beautiful and practical.
Our clients wanted a mountain retreat that saved energy, stood strong against the elements, and stayed functional as life changes. High up at 8,200 feet, efficiency was key to cut heating costs, while durability meant handling winds up to 100mph and heavy snow. They also planned for the future with easy access – no stairs, wide doors, and spots for handrails if needed.
Mountain homes can rack up bills and wear down fast from weather and fires. We solved that with smart solar heating that covers most warmth needs naturally, using big windows and heavy walls to store heat. For strength, steel framing and fire-safe materials keep everything secure. And for everyday ease, the layout follows “form follows function,” making spaces like the kitchen intuitive and the whole home barrier-free.
The core idea? Work with the sun and the site. Windows face southeast for passive heat gain, with overhangs to block summer sun and shed snow. Inside, sloped ceilings let hot air escape, and thermal masses like the concrete floor hold warmth overnight. It’s a design that flows naturally, promoting comfort without extra effort.
Built on steel posts and beams for unshakeable support, the exterior uses corten steel, stone, and glass – all local, low-maintenance, and fire-resistant. The roof is top-rated for fires, and the deck withstands the elements year after year. Efficient floor heating kicks in only when necessary, keeping things cozy and costs low.
Simple and serene, with soft colors and clean shapes that let the views shine. Wide hallways and no steps make navigation easy, with thoughtful prep for any future needs. It’s a home that feels open, peaceful, and perfectly in tune with the outdoors.
Since 2019, East Watch has been a haven of sustainability and strength. It reduces energy use, withstands the mountains’ challenges, and adapts to life’s stages – all while offering stunning views and daily comfort. A true example of design that enhances how you live, built for lasting joy and resilience.

The European homeowners wanted to create a space for a new sauna and hot tub, as well as a place to relax afterwards. It needed to be light and bright, and have a warm but modern feel. We built this addition under the existing deck, and spruced up the deck at the same time to enjoy the nice territorial views.
The walls of the addition are cedar, with built-ins and deep cabinets for storage. There is a walk-in, tiled shower with built-in bench just off the sauna, and a seating area with tv for relaxing. The floor is stained concrete.
The 14-foot wall of windows (including a door to the hot tub), and the secondary window wall that includes french doors allows the maximum amount of light into the space and really creates that spa feeling.
The plans evolved during construction to include a larger sauna (thereby reducing the shower size somewhat) and a much larger hot tub than originally planned. The solution was to move the hot tub outside, which had the benefit of opening up more space inside for a yoga/ workout area. The hot tub is covered by a glass roof so it can be enjoyed year-round under the stars.

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This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates.
To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling.
In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs.
The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact.
As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

The client wanted to update their bathroom to have an elevated farmhouse feel, so we designed the vanities with a contemporary apron front countertop and used plumbing fixtures that give a nod to old fashioned water pump handles and lighting that is reminiscent of lanterns. They wanted to reduce the tub footprint, so we included a free-standing tub that is custom painted to coordinate with the shower floor tiles. They wanted to incorporate more functionality including space for laundry, jewelry organization, a coffee bar, ice maker and beverage center as well as a more organized feel overall.

J Design Group
The Interior Design of your office is a very important part of your daily living and your successful dream project.
A good office design promotes good health and helps you accomplish your daily goals by catering to the needs of your employees both mentally and physically. It will create a warm and friendly environment in which they feel relaxed and happy. As a result, workers feel better physically because the environment in which they are working is less stressful. It will also provide a safe environment and promote healthy work habits that will reduce fatigue, aches and pain and accidents.
Your friendly Interior design firm in Miami at your service.
Contemporary - Modern Interior designs.
Top Interior Design Firm in Miami – Coral Gables.
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J Design Group – Miami Interior Design Firm – Modern – Contemporary
Contact us: (305) 444-4611
http://www.JDesignGroup.com

Inspired by this Arvada kitchen renovation?
Our design process blends refined materials, custom details, and thoughtful space planning to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. For clients seeking a luxury kitchen remodel with warmth, elegance, and everyday ease, this bespoke custom kitchen, project "Nest and Nurture" is a beautiful example of what is possible when design is tailored to the way a family truly lives.
This kitchen was designed to support the rhythm of modern family living while honoring timeless, elevated craftsmanship. This transitional kitchen began as a structural redesign, requiring engineering expertise to open up the heart of the home and create a more connected, light-filled space where cooking, gathering, hosting, and everyday routines could happen with ease.
The result is a warm and highly functional luxury kitchen layered with enduring materials and thoughtful details. Rich walnut cabinetry brings depth and natural character, while Taj Mahal quartzite countertops introduce soft movement, creamy warmth, and refined elegance. Brushed brass hardware, plumbing, and lighting add a tailored glow throughout the space, balancing the organic wood tones with a polished, sophisticated finish. Durable ceramic tile completes the palette, offering texture, practicality, and timeless appeal.
Designed with both beauty and convenience in mind, this Arvada kitchen remodel features bespoke storage solutions crafted around the family’s daily life. Custom pull-outs, hidden organizational systems, specialty cookware storage, integrated towel storage, and finely crafted cabinetry create a kitchen that feels effortless to use and beautiful from every angle. Every detail was designed to reduce clutter, improve flow, and make the kitchen work harder without sacrificing style.
With its blend of classic detailing, modern openness, and fashion-forward functionality, Nest and Nurture reflects a truly elevated approach to transitional kitchen design. This renovation transformed the home into a more generous, welcoming, and highly personalized space—one built for connection, comfort, and the everyday rituals that make a house feel deeply lived in.

THE SETUP
Sam’s client had lived in her downtown townhome home for less than a year when she decided to remodel the spacious second level. This open area consisted of three sections: a TV and fireplace zone, a sparsely furnished dining area, and a dominant central kitchen. The kitchen featured a long back wall with three segmented sections and a massive island housing the cooktop. She found the kitchen’s functionality lacking and its presence overwhelming – it dominated the entire floor, regardless of where you stood.
Design objectives:
- Reconfigure key kitchen elements (sink, cooktop, oven) while minimizing the kitchen’s visual impact
- Optimize the kitchen’s back wall, eliminating existing dead space
- Create a purposeful, well-defined dining area
- Establish a distinct, comfortable living area
- Reuse existing appliances and flooring
- Maintain an overall modern design aesthetic
THE REMODEL
Design challenges to be solved:
- Redesign the island to reduce its overwhelming presence
- Create a comfortable, dedicated living room within the available space
- Establish a distinct, inviting dining area within spatial constraints
- Enhance kitchen functionality and style without dominating the entire floor
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design solutions:
- Sam created raised end caps for the island. This separated the kitchen from adjacent living and dining areas while focusing the kitchen’s functionality. The new sink location offers ample workspace, allowing the cook to interact with guests seated at the island. The redesigned island also provides additional storage.
- For the living area, Sam opted for a functional-yet-minimalist approach. Large-format tile creates a natural stone look for the fireplace and TV wall. The recessed TV and extended fireplace shelf maintain a sleek profile. - Artistic wallpaper adds depth and texture, while the intentional lack of extensive shelving keeps the space open and distinct.
- Sam transformed the dining area’s blank wall into a feature, adding a unique dry bar with counter space, open shelves, cabinet storage and a beverage fridge. - - - Wallpaper behind and above the bar contributes to the area’s personality. A mirror adds depth while pendant lights add style and visual interest.
Relocating the cooktop to the back wall facilitates hidden ventilation, reducing visual clutter. Sam balanced transitional and modern elements for a contemporary yet comfortable feel. The digital control panel on the convection cooktop maintains a sleek look, while the wall oven is now at an easy-to-use height. ----- Mirrored base cabinet fronts and a paneled fridge prevent cabinetry monotony.
The redesign has delighted Sam’s client, achieving her main goal of creating a more inviting and visually appealing space. Each section now has its own visual personality and functionality while harmonizing within a monochromatic palette. The entire floor offers wow-factor pop upon first glance, with each area maintaining its distinct character while contributing to a cohesive, modern aesthetic.

Union Square Loft II
DHD Interiors worked with this couple to furnish their new recently renovated Flatiron loft. Navigating the dark wood paneling and flooring, DHD selected furniture and finishes that felt rich in color and texture while still cool and casual. Layers of grass cloth wallpapers were added to the main bedrooms to reduce the contrast of the dark wood and walls, adding brightness to the loft’s overall feel. Greys and mink-toned browns served as the foundation for a base palette, with deep burgundies and blues working as accents. This loft feels like a true downtown loft with its original brick and an industrial dining table, but stays balanced with softly upholstered furniture. Each piece, from the Dunbar chaise lounge to the organically shaped coffee table, displays a sculptural quality that contributes to a visually dynamic space.
2 Bedrooms / 2,000 Square Feet
Architecture and Photography:
Danny Forster Design Studio

This 2022 project was a fully custom mix and writing suite designed for multi-Grammy and Dove Award–winning producer and songwriter Kyle Lee. The goal was to create an environment that mirrors his creative workflow—quiet, natural, highly accurate, and intentionally crafted for long sessions of collaboration and focused work.
The layout is compact but feels open thanks to high ceilings, soft daylight from the surrounding windows, and a palette of warm textures and natural materials. The room maintains a clean, grounded aesthetic without sacrificing technical performance, balancing style and acoustical precision in a way that supports both creativity and accuracy.
Acoustic isolation was a core priority. The suite is fully separated from the rest of the home using sound-reducing wall assemblies, custom bass management including a full soft-ceiling trap and a false rear wall trap, and full-lite doors designed for controlled leakage. The result is a private, self-contained environment that integrates seamlessly with the home’s flow yet transforms into a focused creative space the moment the doors close.
Monitoring was built around Kyle’s preferred ATC SCM45A loudspeakers, paired with Dynaudio subwoofers and calibrated specifically to the room’s frequency response. Every treatment, material, and speaker position was selected to ensure what Kyle hears while mixing precisely translates to the final master.
The finished suite delivers an effortless feel with professional-grade performance—an inspiring, accurate, and dependable space built to support Kyle’s work at the highest level.

After the Remodel – Kitchen
The kitchen was completely reimagined into a bright, open, and modern space. The lowered ceiling was removed and new lighting was added, creating a luminous and welcoming atmosphere. Walls were taken down to open the floor plan, and a large peninsula was introduced, adding both functionality and flow to the entire home. White cabinets that reach the ceiling maximize storage, while warm wood shelves bring a cozy touch. The quartz countertops and herringbone backsplash give a timeless elegance, perfectly complemented by modern appliances and a central range hood. Continuous wood flooring ties the kitchen seamlessly with the rest of the house, making it spacious, cohesive, and highly valuable.and no longer functional in design. Dark and unattractive tile choices made the space feel even more closed-in. Poor lighting only added to the problem, leaving the kitchen dim and unwelcoming. The space was divided into two separate sections with closed walls, eliminating the possibility of an open concept and making the area feel much smaller than it really was. The lowered ceiling further reduced the sense of space, wasting the kitchen’s true potential. Overall, it was a poorly lit, outdated kitchen lacking both style and functionality.

THE SETUP
Sam’s client had lived in her downtown townhome home for less than a year when she decided to remodel the spacious second level. This open area consisted of three sections: a TV and fireplace zone, a sparsely furnished dining area, and a dominant central kitchen. The kitchen featured a long back wall with three segmented sections and a massive island housing the cooktop. She found the kitchen’s functionality lacking and its presence overwhelming – it dominated the entire floor, regardless of where you stood.
Design objectives:
- Reconfigure key kitchen elements (sink, cooktop, oven) while minimizing the kitchen’s visual impact
- Optimize the kitchen’s back wall, eliminating existing dead space
- Create a purposeful, well-defined dining area
- Establish a distinct, comfortable living area
- Reuse existing appliances and flooring
- Maintain an overall modern design aesthetic
THE REMODEL
Design challenges to be solved:
- Redesign the island to reduce its overwhelming presence
- Create a comfortable, dedicated living room within the available space
- Establish a distinct, inviting dining area within spatial constraints
- Enhance kitchen functionality and style without dominating the entire floor
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design solutions:
- Sam created raised end caps for the island. This separated the kitchen from adjacent living and dining areas while focusing the kitchen’s functionality. The new sink location offers ample workspace, allowing the cook to interact with guests seated at the island. The redesigned island also provides additional storage.
- For the living area, Sam opted for a functional-yet-minimalist approach. Large-format tile creates a natural stone look for the fireplace and TV wall. The recessed TV and extended fireplace shelf maintain a sleek profile. - Artistic wallpaper adds depth and texture, while the intentional lack of extensive shelving keeps the space open and distinct.
- Sam transformed the dining area’s blank wall into a feature, adding a unique dry bar with counter space, open shelves, cabinet storage and a beverage fridge. - - - Wallpaper behind and above the bar contributes to the area’s personality. A mirror adds depth while pendant lights add style and visual interest.
Relocating the cooktop to the back wall facilitates hidden ventilation, reducing visual clutter. Sam balanced transitional and modern elements for a contemporary yet comfortable feel. The digital control panel on the convection cooktop maintains a sleek look, while the wall oven is now at an easy-to-use height. ----- Mirrored base cabinet fronts and a paneled fridge prevent cabinetry monotony.
The redesign has delighted Sam’s client, achieving her main goal of creating a more inviting and visually appealing space. Each section now has its own visual personality and functionality while harmonizing within a monochromatic palette. The entire floor offers wow-factor pop upon first glance, with each area maintaining its distinct character while contributing to a cohesive, modern aesthetic.

Our doors have several superior features:
- Single sheet of metal is used in construction. No welded seams are best as these can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the entranceway. Our doors are also more resilient to mechanic damage, such as sledgehammer strikes.
- The advantage of a single, non-welded door is that it reduces interior internal condensation. Over time, condensation can negatively affect the door mechanisms.
- Stiffening Ribs: These non-visible details add to our door's security.
- Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold.
- 3D Hinges: Hacking are often carried out at the side of a door's hinges. A better feature is utilizing hinges with ball bearings and installed anti-cuts.
Introducing the Deux collection of modern exterior entrance doors in a sleek black enamel color. These doors are expertly crafted from a single sheet of metal with a sturdy Aluminum frame and threshold, ensuring both durability and security for your home.
The exterior design boasts a vertical insert of Stainless Steel and opaque black glass, creating a bold and modern look that will enhance the curb appeal of any home. The black enamel color provides a sophisticated and contemporary feel, perfect for those who want to make a statement with their entrance.
The interior design also features a vertical insert of Stainless Steel and opaque black glass, creating a cohesive and stylish look throughout the home.
With the Deux collection, you don't have to compromise on style or function. These modern front doors offer both, making them the perfect choice for homeowners who want to elevate the look of their home's exterior.
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Upgrade your home's curb appeal and make a bold statement with the Deux collection of modern exterior entrance doors in black enamel. Order yours today and experience the perfect combination of style and function.
Model - 1755 Deux
Color - Black
Door thickness - 3 1/4"
Frame thickness - 4"
Exterior design - Vertical insert of the Stainless Steel and opaque black glass. Coating of the door - black enamel.
Interior design - Vertical insert of the Stainless Steel and opaque black glass. Coating of the door - black enamel.
Hardware included:
- Aluminum frame 4" thick - Dimensions of the door including frame is 74" x 82".
- Aluminum threshold.
- Plate-type, primary mortise lock for armoured type of aluminum doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys.
- Heavy-duty Cylinder.
- 3D hinges Wala
- Turnknob for lock.
- Armor plate Securemme for the lock.
- 2 Bar Handles.

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This family from Wheaton was ready to remodel their kitchen, dining room and powder room. The project didn’t call for any structural or space planning changes but the makeover still had a massive impact on their home. The homeowners wanted to change their dated 1990’s brown speckled granite and light maple kitchen. They liked the welcoming feeling they got from the wood and warm tones in their current kitchen, but this style clashed with their vision of a deVOL type kitchen, a London-based furniture company. Their inspiration came from the country homes of the UK that mix the warmth of traditional detail with clean lines and modern updates.
To create their vision, we started with all new framed cabinets with a modified overlay painted in beautiful, understated colors. Our clients were adamant about “no white cabinets.” Instead we used an oyster color for the perimeter and a custom color match to a specific shade of green chosen by the homeowner. The use of a simple color pallet reduces the visual noise and allows the space to feel open and welcoming. We also painted the trim above the cabinets the same color to make the cabinets look taller. The room trim was painted a bright clean white to match the ceiling.
In true English fashion our clients are not coffee drinkers, but they LOVE tea. We created a tea station for them where they can prepare and serve tea. We added plenty of glass to showcase their tea mugs and adapted the cabinetry below to accommodate storage for their tea items. Function is also key for the English kitchen and the homeowners. They requested a deep farmhouse sink and a cabinet devoted to their heavy mixer because they bake a lot. We then got rid of the stovetop on the island and wall oven and replaced both of them with a range located against the far wall. This gives them plenty of space on the island to roll out dough and prepare any number of baked goods. We then removed the bifold pantry doors and created custom built-ins with plenty of usable storage for all their cooking and baking needs.
The client wanted a big change to the dining room but still wanted to use their own furniture and rug. We installed a toile-like wallpaper on the top half of the room and supported it with white wainscot paneling. We also changed out the light fixture, showing us once again that small changes can have a big impact.
As the final touch, we also re-did the powder room to be in line with the rest of the first floor. We had the new vanity painted in the same oyster color as the kitchen cabinets and then covered the walls in a whimsical patterned wallpaper. Although the homeowners like subtle neutral colors they were willing to go a bit bold in the powder room for something unexpected. For more design inspiration go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

The European homeowners wanted to create a space for a new sauna and hot tub, as well as a place to relax afterwards. It needed to be light and bright, and have a warm but modern feel. We built this addition under the existing deck, and spruced up the deck at the same time to enjoy the nice territorial views.
The walls of the addition are cedar, with built-ins and deep cabinets for storage. There is a walk-in, tiled shower with built-in bench just off the sauna, and a seating area with tv for relaxing. The floor is stained concrete.
The 14-foot wall of windows (including a door to the hot tub), and the secondary window wall that includes french doors allows the maximum amount of light into the space and really creates that spa feeling.
The plans evolved during construction to include a larger sauna (thereby reducing the shower size somewhat) and a much larger hot tub than originally planned. The solution was to move the hot tub outside, which had the benefit of opening up more space inside for a yoga/ workout area. The hot tub is covered by a glass roof so it can be enjoyed year-round under the stars.
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