Our design for an apartment located in the West End-Collegiate Historic District Extension in Manhattan addressed a number of challenges to unleash the potential of this 2.500-square-foot space in an elegant pre-war building. When purchased by our client, the property was in estate condition and needed extensive work, requiring demolition and a complete makeover of the living spaces, as well as the addition of contemporary climate control. Among the spatial and design challenges, the primary bathroom was exposed to the entry foyer of the apartment, and the dining room and kitchen were each closed-in and lacking light. The dining room’s promise as a bright, convivial space was fulfilled by adding double pocket doors opening to the living room, kitchen and foyer, establishing a seamless flow through the entertaining spaces while bringing in much-needed light. We designed a chic and modern solution for the primary bedroom’s lack of privacy, creating a walk-in closet that serves as a transitional vestibule in the bedroom, adding both visual intrigue and additional storage space while shielding the viewscape from the apartment entrance through the foyer to the bedroom. To add a three-zone central air conditioning system, we took advantage of the kitchen facing an interior courtyard, placing the air conditioning condensers here, which also satisfied landmark property restrictions. The climate control system was accomplished without lowering ceiling heights. Finally, we worked with the client to choose classic finishes and fixtures that reflect and enhance the historic nature of the property, and are also contemporary and timeless. These include unlacquered brass hardware, herringbone oak flooring with a stencil border, black-and-white bathrooms, and paneling, trim, and moldings that are simple and elegant. POP Architecture was the architect for the project, and Godwin Construction was the general contractor.

This beautiful, 1,600 SF duplex three-bedroom, two-bath apartment in the heart of the West Village was originally a diamond in the rough with great potential. The coop is located on a quiet, tree-lined street and, as a top floor unit, boasts lovely southern and eastern exposures with views of this charming neighborhood overlooking the Hudson. Our clients were making a big move from the West Coast and wanted the new home to be ready in time for the start of the new school year, so Studioteka’s architecture and interior design team rolled up our sleeves and got to work! Construction documents were prepared for the coop board and NYC Department of Buildings approval and our team coordinated the renovation. The entire unit had new hardwood flooring, moldings, and doors installed, the stairs were gently refinished, and we took down a wall separating the living room from a small den on the lower level, making the living space much more open, light-filled, and inviting. The hot water heater was tucked away in an unused space under the stair landing, allowing for the creation of a new kitchen pantry with additional storage. We gut-renovated the upstairs bathroom, creating a built-in shower niche as well as a brand new Duravit tub, Mirabelle high-efficiency toilet, American Standard matte black fixtures, and a white Strasser Woodenworks vanity with black hardware. Classic white subway tile lines the walls and shower enclosure, while black and white basketweave tile is used on the floor. The matte black towel hooks, toilet roll holder, and towel rod contrast with the white wall tile, and a shower curtain with a delicate black and white pattern completes the room. Finally, new mid-century modern furnishings were combined with existing pieces to create an apartment that is both a joy to come home to and a warm, inviting urban oasis for this family of four.

A rental can be many things — uninspired isn’t one of them. This studio had good bones, height, and potential… but none of it was being used. So we rebuilt the story from the inside out, carving intention into every slope, corner, and sightline. Nature-inspired wallpapers wrap the space with mood and movement. Sleek, masculine elements meet midcentury curves, creating a palette that feels collected, not chaotic. The open concept becomes a playground for contrast: industrial details softened by rich texture, warm woods, and refined finishes. It’s sexy. It’s artsy. It’s editorial. And yes — it’s still a rental. A sanctuary carved out of constraints. A space that finally reflects the life being lived inside it.

The clients were inspired to renovate following exposure to Zen architecture while honeymooning in Japan. The architectural brief was to deliver a modern Australian home that serves as a private, meditative retreat that would also cater to a buzzing family as their relationship evolves; and transform into a welcoming and generous entertaining space. The home would need to maximise the potential of the sites orientation and create a strong connection to generous and versatile outdoor spaces including sheltered entertaining areas and spacious areas for planting and lawn. It was essential that elements of the existing residence be retained where possible to reduce waste, however disguised so that the final product was effectively a new home.

Inspiration for a timeless pool remodel in Wichita

The primary bedroom provides a true retreat from the outside world with it's layers of inviting softness and textures. Our design team started with a completely white space with mini blinds and a standard builder-grade ceiling fan, but we could see the true sophisticated potential of this lovely room. The 72" tall, upholstered bed provides a stately centerpiece to the large room, while a soft 10' x 14' rug grounds the space. The bed is flanked with large stone front nightstands and alabaster lamps. Custom drapery flanks the wall of windows overlooking the backyard's modern pool. Remote control window shades block out the light when it's time for sleeping and a textured sisal look wallpaper, selected by our team, accentuates the headboard wall of the room. The designers continued the design of the large space to include a sofa and two swivel chairs at the end of the bed, complete with a gilded coffee table, large dresser for storage and a wall mounted TV for watching while lounging in bed. The impressive 48" round alabaster and gold chandelier fills the volume of space flawlessly and makes a grand statement in the beautiful space. Finally, the wall facing the window wall was dressed with oversized abstract artwork that showcases the rooms' soothing natural color palate.

In a beautiful suburb on the north side of Houston, Texas, Joe and Kristen discovered their dream home—a property with a great lot, situated in a fantastic neighborhood with a thoughtfully designed floor plan. They had been drawn to the house for its charm and had admired the kitchen, which had been tastefully remodeled a few years earlier by a contractor who, despite doing excellent work, was no longer in business. However, upon moving in, they quickly realized that their master bathroom was woefully inadequate and in dire need of immediate repair. Determined to turn their bathroom into a luxurious retreat, Joe and Kristen sought out Houston Bath & Kitchen, a reputable design-build firm renowned for their meticulous process and outstanding results. They were impressed from the outset with the efficiency and expertise. In just 90 minutes, their design team presented a complete concept plan and provided a detailed estimate—a promising start to what would become an inspiring collaboration. Guided by Houston Bath & Kitchen's comprehensive approach, Joe and Kristen embarked on a thorough "design tour." The team expertly navigated them through the selection process, ensuring every choice aligned perfectly with their aesthetic preferences and practical needs. Together, they crafted a vision that included an oversized shower for two, creatively integrating a freestanding tub within the shower area—an innovative solution that maximized space and luxury. As the project progressed, The Houston Bath & Kitchen production team conducted a thorough "trade walk," meticulously inspecting the jobsite to uncover potential complexities and ensure no detail was overlooked. This step was crucial in setting reliable expectations and eliminating surprises. Detailing the scope of work was another pivotal phase, emphasizing transparency and clarity. Joe and Kristen felt reassured knowing exactly what to expect at each stage of the remodel. Houston Bath & Kitchen then moved into the "master planning phase," coordinating materials, surveys, and permits with precision. Trades were scheduled, and critical paths were identified—laying a solid foundation for a seamless execution. Throughout the process, communication remained robust, and the meticulous planning ensured the project stayed on track both in terms of time and budget. One of the standout features of the design was the intricate tile work that adorned the walls and floors, fulfilling Joe and Kristen's desire for a design with variation and detail. Natural light was ingeniously incorporated through strategically placed windows and skylights, providing a serene ambiance without sacrificing privacy—a testament to Houston Bath & Kitchen's expertise in balancing functionality with aesthetics. The final touch of luxury came in the form of a heated floor, adding warmth and comfort to the space—a detail that epitomized Houston Bath & Kitchen's commitment to fulfilling every customer priority. Less than a year after the project was complete, Joe and Kristen made a decision to sell their home. Remarkably, the property went on the market and sold for $75,000 over asking price—a testament to the transformative impact of their newly remodeled master bathroom. While the exact influence of the bathroom on the bidding war remains speculative, it undoubtedly played a significant role in the home's appeal and ultimate sale price. The success of their home sale not only underscored the value of their investment but also highlighted the expertise and dedication of Houston Bath & Kitchen in delivering a space that not only met but exceeded their expectations. Joe and Kristen stepped into their newly remodeled master bathroom with hearts full of joy. The space surpassed their dreams, reflecting their style and enhancing their daily lives—a sanctuary that would be cherished for years to come, thanks to Houston Bath & Kitchen's skillful guidance and commitment to excellence.

The family's once-loved home had become a source of frustration. Their kitchen, a space meant for gathering and creating, felt cramped and outdated. Limited storage and poor organization made meal prep a tedious task, and entertaining guests a logistical nightmare. The laundry room, often overlooked, was equally problematic. Its cramped layout and lack of storage made laundry day a chore, and the noise of the washing machine echoed through the living room. To compound the issue, the absence of dedicated office spaces made working from home a constant struggle. One makeshift office was squeezed into the dining room, while another was relegated to the basement. The family was hesitant to embark on a major renovation, fearing the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a project. Finding a reliable contractor, ensuring timely completion, and worrying about potential shoddy workmanship were all valid concerns. We understood their anxieties and were committed to providing a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team crafted a design that addressed each of their concerns, transforming their home into a functional and stylish space. We reimagined the laundry room, creating a custom storage solution and incorporating a stackable washer and dryer. The open hallway to the living room was enclosed, creating a spacious closet with ample storage. The laundry room now seamlessly connected to the kitchen, simplifying the grocery unloading process. A former juliette balcony was converted into a dedicated office space, providing a peaceful and productive work-from-home environment. The dated and cluttered ensuite bathroom received a luxurious makeover. A clever pull-out storage system in the shower wall and a spacious niche provided much-needed organization. While every renovation project has its challenges, this one was remarkably smooth. The only significant hurdle was some additional structural work required in the basement to support the new office space. Our experienced team handled this efficiently, minimizing any disruption. The final result is a home that truly reflects the family's personality and lifestyle. The laundry room, now a cheerful and organized space with soft green cabinets, patterned floor tiles, and gold accents, showcases our attention to detail. The kitchen is a stunning centerpiece, featuring a striking combination of blue and white cabinets, dark hardwood floors, and a sleek white backsplash. The adjacent beverage bar, with its glass-fronted upper cabinets, provides an elegant space for entertaining. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, with large-format marble tiles, a black vanity, and chrome fixtures creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. The renovation has had a profound impact on the family's daily life. Ample storage throughout the house has banished clutter, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. The seamless flow from the laundry room to the kitchen has streamlined the grocery unloading process, and the dedicated office spaces have transformed the work-from-home experience. Beyond the physical transformation, it was the shared moments and laughter that made this project truly special. The family's enthusiasm and good humor were contagious. One of the clients, with his big personality, even starred in a walk-through video of the finished project, showcasing his infectious joy. From choosing tiles to navigating unexpected challenges, the entire process was filled with warmth and collaboration. Even their four-year-old son, initially shy, warmed up to our site leader, Gus, nicknaming him "Gus the Bus," a moniker that endeared him to the entire team.

Our client came to us looking to transform their outdated bathroom into a space that felt both modern and in harmony with the rest of their home. The existing materials and layout were no longer working—visually or functionally—so we set out to reimagine the entire space. To create a more cohesive look with the rest of the home, we installed wood-tone wall tiles, bringing warmth and a natural aesthetic to the bathroom. For contrast and a clean, elevated look, we paired them with Calacatta-style porcelain floor tiles, adding brightness and visual depth to the space. We updated the shower area with a matte black shower system and matching hardware, introducing a sleek and modern edge. The bathtub was removed and replaced with a walk-in shower, which we enhanced with a built-in bench—offering both comfort and practicality. To add further contrast and detail, we selected a hexagon tile pattern for the shower floor, complementing the overall design while subtly standing out. To improve daily functionality, we added drawer storage to the vanity, increasing organization potential without sacrificing style. The outdated plain glass mirror was replaced with a backlit LED mirror with an anti-fog feature, offering both better lighting and a cleaner look. Behind the door, we built pantry-style cabinetry, maximizing storage in an often-overlooked space. At the client's request, we also removed the old heated flooring, which was no longer desired. For water pressure and shower experience, we installed a 2.5 GPM shower system, tailored to the homeowner’s preferences. Finally, we enclosed the shower with a custom frameless glass door and tied everything together with matte black finishes throughout. The end result is a serene, stylish, and fully modernized bathroom tailored to the client's taste—warm yet contemporary, practical yet beautiful. We’re thrilled with the transformation and wish our client many relaxing days ahead in their new space!

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

The clients were inspired to renovate following exposure to Zen architecture while honeymooning in Japan. The architectural brief was to deliver a modern Australian home that serves as a private, meditative retreat that would also cater to a buzzing family as their relationship evolves; and transform into a welcoming and generous entertaining space. The home would need to maximise the potential of the sites orientation and create a strong connection to generous and versatile outdoor spaces including sheltered entertaining areas and spacious areas for planting and lawn. It was essential that elements of the existing residence be retained where possible to reduce waste, however disguised so that the final product was effectively a new home.

Before this bathroom received a modern update it was a late 60's bathroom that had seen it's last days. From old wall tile, small square floor tile and a tub/shower that needed some major TLC to a space that now lives up to its potential. The bathroom features "Tumbleweed" colored onyx on the vanity top and shower surround which encompasses the whole alcove including the ceiling. The flooring is Nociolla ceramic tile from the Florentine Collection found at Daltile. The bathroom is adorned with Devonshire Collection From Kohler fixtures including a Kohler Flipside Handheld Shower Head. Finally the gorgeous Harvest Square Maple vanity from Kohler brings an added punch to this fantastic space.

Chris Darnell
Bathroom - coastal bathroom idea in Orange County

Before this bathroom received a modern update it was a late 60's bathroom that had seen it's last days. From old wall tile, small square floor tile and a tub/shower that needed some major TLC to a space that now lives up to its potential. The bathroom features "Tumbleweed" colored onyx on the vanity top and shower surround which encompasses the whole alcove including the ceiling. The flooring is Nociolla ceramic tile from the Florentine Collection found at Daltile. The bathroom is adorned with Devonshire Collection From Kohler fixtures including a Kohler Flipside Handheld Shower Head. Finally the gorgeous Harvest Square Maple vanity from Kohler brings an added punch to this fantastic space.

The kitchen layout remained intact, while appliances, fixtures, hardware, countertops and backsplashes were upgraded . All three bathrooms in the house were also renovated, original hardwood floors were refinished and carpet and tile flooring throughout replaced. Additionally, the dated built-in brick fireplace on the ground floor game room was redesigned. The new fireplace design would now directly tie in with the modern farmhouse style of the exterior, complete with the addition of a large wooden mantle. DTSH Interiors formulated a plan for six rooms; the living room, dining room, master bedroom, two children's bedrooms and ground floor game room, with the inclusion of the complete fireplace re-design. The interior also received major upgrades during the whole-house renovation. All of the walls and ceilings were resurfaced, the windows, doors and all interior trim was re-done. The end result was a giant leap forward for this family; in design, style and functionality. The home felt completely new and refreshed, and once fully furnished, all elements of the renovation came together seamlessly and seemed to make all of the renovations shine. During the "big reveal" moment, the day the family finally returned home for their summer away, it was difficult for me to decide who was more excited, the adults or the kids! The home owners kept saying, with a look of delighted disbelief "I can't believe this is our house!" As a designer, I absolutely loved this project, because it shows the potential of an average, older Pittsburgh area home, and how it can become a well designed and updated space. It was rewarding to be part of a project which resulted in creating an elegant and serene living space the family loves coming home to everyday, while the exterior of the home became a standout gem in the neighborhood.

The dining room received a major transformation. The walls and ceilings were resurfaced, the sliding doors were replaced with a walk-out. The light fixture was replaced with a trendy industrial style fixture and edison bulbs. The dining table felt hip and cool with its solid acacia wood, and contrasting bench with 4 chairs. The exterior of the home received a major facelift and transformation, including new light fixtures, updated roof and facia, updated wood beams, wood door, wood ceiling and stone added to the entrance and more. This took the home from a dated look to an updated and fresh "modern farmhouse" aesthetic. The kitchen layout remained intact, while appliances, fixtures, hardware, countertops and backsplashes were upgraded . All three bathrooms in the house were also renovated, original hardwood floors were refinished and carpet and tile flooring throughout replaced. Additionally, the dated built-in brick fireplace on the ground floor game room was redesigned. The new fireplace design would now directly tie in with the modern farmhouse style of the exterior, complete with the addition of a large wooden mantle. DTSH Interiors formulated a plan for six rooms; the living room, dining room, master bedroom, two children's bedrooms and ground floor game room, with the inclusion of the complete fireplace re-design. The interior also received major upgrades during the whole-house renovation. All of the walls and ceilings were resurfaced, the windows, doors and all interior trim was re-done. The end result was a giant leap forward for this family; in design, style and functionality. The home felt completely new and refreshed, and once fully furnished, all elements of the renovation came together seamlessly and seemed to make all of the renovations shine. During the "big reveal" moment, the day the family finally returned home for their summer away, it was difficult for me to decide who was more excited, the adults or the kids! The home owners kept saying, with a look of delighted disbelief "I can't believe this is our house!" As a designer, I absolutely loved this project, because it shows the potential of an average, older Pittsburgh area home, and how it can become a well designed and updated space. It was rewarding to be part of a project which resulted in creating an elegant and serene living space the family loves coming home to everyday, while the exterior of the home became a standout gem in the neighborhood.

LEED Certification level: lEE FOR HOMES (V.3),SILVER In Oct 8,2015, USGBC honored a Brazilian Project with the First LEED FOR HOMES certificate of Brazil, awarded with a high Silver score, ((81.5 final ptos - 12.5( HSA) resulting 69 ptos)) due to green strategies applied in different areas of construction. This outstanding result could only be achieved with the collaboration of a well-integrated team of professionals, focused on unifying solutions suitable to all areas of construction, with materials that provide high efficiency and counted on an experienced and dedicated team, the support given by homeowner during entire process was essential to success of this project. The owner, who embraced LEED concepts, found his incentive on his granddaughter, who must have the opportunity to grow in an environment with availability of all natural resources, and endeavored to gather the team and to find solutions that best fit each opportunity. The consequence of this work was an exceptional residence, being an impressive showcase of green building strategies that have come together in a home. Alphaville Dom Pedro Residence, as the project was named, sets an example of quality and sustainability, achieving new standards required by condominium rules of construction in Campinas city, 80 miles from São Paulo, state's capital capital. The construction was managed by LCP Engineering & Construction, using the innovative Ecogrid® technology, based on SCIP (Structured Concrete Insulated Panel) construction, which provided this home a high thermal-acoustic performance, reduction on waste generation during construction and minimal energy consumption. Furthermore, this project was planned to take full advantage of the sun’s potential, through the usage of solar and photovoltaic panels, designed to produce the energy needed to heat all water from house and pool, as well as generate part of the electricity consumed. Being one of the most treasured resources, a special care was given by the project team to the water management system. Saving water plays a big role in this fascinating project: action was taken to allow all water used in showers, sinks and from the rain to be reused after the treatment through a natural process, phytoremediation by wetland, for irrigation and toilets. Also efficient faucets and showers that have a low flow rate were used. The irrigation and landscape design, fully done with native vegetation, demands a low amount of water to fuel the drip irrigation system implemented on 100% of the landscape area. Separate zones of irrigation were installed according to watering needs, equipped with an automatic activation system, moisture sensor and pressure regulation devices, all programmed to minimize evaporation losses. Polypropylene Random Copolymer (PPR) pipes were used replacing the PVC as non-toxic material, guarantying the joints between pipes and fittings for total security system . Furthermore, a high degree of internal living quality was achieved minimizing the bacterial proliferation; mold, mildew and termite free due to the Ecogrid Technology. All finishing used on this residence, like tiles, faucets, toilets have a high percentage of recycle materials, provided by local manufacturers, promoting the maturity of the local industries complying with the rating of the certification process. This marvel project is extremely important to the national market, representing a significant milestone in the Latin in Brazilian Residential Building Sector, bringing the LEED for Homes certification and establishing sustainable parameters to future home builders for example: The house produces 46% of the energy used, NET Zero, Inverter Split air conditioning system, 100% of the hot water coming from solar panel, PVC free, use PPR pipes, Use phytoremediation process achieving 62% efficient water reuse, 95% efficiency in non construction waste, Confortable and Healthy Interior Environment. In rapids highlights, *Inovation in the technologic process of construction , ECOGRIDE, witch besides the environmental comfort, regards for the salubrity and owner,s welfare. *Exceeded average rates of energy efficiency with the use of photovoltaic panels, HVAC and home appliances with the inverter technology. *Consolidated the importance of social and education environmental practices of the workers and owner. *Reference on sustainable urban condominiums with quality and connectivity in the state of Sao Paulo and Contribute for the Brazilian market improvement and proved that actual market is already prepare to supply the sustainable construction. But the must important was…. “Once Upon a Time“… there was a devoted grandfather, who believed in a better world for his granddaughter, seeking for solutions to leave a legacy of learning and achievements ways for future generations. This beautiful love story has a happy ending, with the reception of First Leed For Homes Silver in Brazil and First Leed For Homes Silver in Latin America, for this wonderful residence. A home full of love, affection and “sweet home” for many happy moments between this grandfather and his granddaughter.

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

The clients were inspired to renovate following exposure to Zen architecture while honeymooning in Japan. The architectural brief was to deliver a modern Australian home that serves as a private, meditative retreat that would also cater to a buzzing family as their relationship evolves; and transform into a welcoming and generous entertaining space. The home would need to maximise the potential of the sites orientation and create a strong connection to generous and versatile outdoor spaces including sheltered entertaining areas and spacious areas for planting and lawn. It was essential that elements of the existing residence be retained where possible to reduce waste, however disguised so that the final product was effectively a new home.