The homeowners invited us in to their home with hopes of updating it's aesthetics, fixing some functional nightmares, and creating an open but still intimate space for small gatherings. Our changes included; removing a large wet bar area, partially removing the wall between the living and kitchen, and opening the formal dining to the kitchen by removing a cased opening between the two rooms. By making these changes, along with many cabinet and appliance location adjustments, a cordially inviting space was achieved. Now the home matches the owner's charm and hospitable spirit.

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

AFTER: Modern French-inspired guest bath with pedestal sinks, fixed glass custom shower door and pivoting mirrors. Paint custom matched to oversized taupe subway tile in shower.

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

Beautiful master bathroom transformation. Classic yet contemporary styling with a bit of glamour. Dark brown, recessed panel cabinetry with a charcoal glaze. Polished Calacatta Gold marble floor and mosaic with antique mirror accents. Countertops are honed Calacatta Gold marble. Freestanding acrylic pedestal tub with deck mounted hardware. Hardware and fixtures are polished nickel, with crystal accents on lighting for a pop of glamour. Mirrors are gilded silver with a beaded detail and beveled frames. Shower included a fixed shower head with separate handheld and nice tile picture frame detail around the shower fixtures. The shower also included an electric defogging mirror incorporated in the tile. Stunning!!!

In order to transform this pocket-sized 1920s kitchen into a family gathering space, we had to get creative, using the existing kitchen, dining area and enclosed porch. The process was further complicated as the home required a Historic Review due to its age and location. The new design includes subway tile and reclaimed wood, maintaining the room’s charm without compromising modern conveniences. Custom windows were designed to match the original windows, and the original kitchen area was transformed into a fully-functioning breakfast bar, with a twist. The breakfast bar now stores all the fixings the clients need to prep meals for their kids. When company comes over, they can convert it into a full-service bar. The granite-top island is the heart of the kitchen. It serves as both a prep station and the perfect gathering space with chairs. Underneath, the island offers near limitless storage for appliances. The most functional element of the kitchen is also the most loved by the clients — the dining banquette. This beautiful space features a custom bench with storage, custom period-specific windows and a reclaimed walnut tabletop. It’s the perfect place for the family to eat a cozy meal or host friends for dinner.

Interior Design by: TOC design. Project Manager: TOC design & Construction inc. Contractor: Ivco inc. Photographer: Guillaume Gorini. A medley of materials works together to create a modern kitchen with a distinctly traditional feel. Oversized slabs of Quartz from Silestone with a beveled edge and clipped corners. Custom cabinets with many interior fixings, fluted legs, closed light valance with puck lights, the continuous crown molding. We even did a special cabinet just for a small TV. So that we would not see any exposed wires. The interior of the cabinets are made to match the walnut floor color with a wood scrape melamine able to handle wear and tear. The cabinet doors where designed and manufactured especially for the client not too traditional not too contemporary. The backsplash is the belle of the ball, with its ornate shape and mat bronze finish. Each cabinet handle was carefully selected to blend with the proportion of doors. Giving this kitchen a warm touch. The large 24” x 24” rectified heated porcelain floor blends in nicely and conceals dirt tracked in by the boys. We can also find a wine rack , open cubbies for cook books, an oversized under mount double sink, extra large paneled refrigerator. What’s not to love. Every aspect of this home has been detailed and cared for with the clients vision of simple traditional that a family can live and Love for many years to come.

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

When used in conjunction with the matching Round Dining Table and Dining Chairs, this Credenza finished in our Olivia Aged Cream is the perfect way to display your favorite vintage bread bowls as well as store those serving platters and linens! However, this piece is perfectly able to stand on its own in your den or family room, where the spacious shelved interior found behind the four front doors guarantees you plenty of room for your audio and video equipment, as well as a amply room for that new big screen on top!

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

This project is a great example of how the addition of a well-designed and considered balustrade can vastly improve an existing staircase and landing, without the need to replace or damage any of the already in-situ finishes. The clients already had a firm idea of the aesthetic they wanted and engaged us to come up with a method to achieve it without creating any disruption to an already finished and painted staircase. After a detailed survey and studying the structural plans of the building, we were able to fully manufacture and powder-coat everything off-site, and simply bolt on to the existing staircase and landing structure in a single visit. This managed to leave no damage or disruption to the property, meaning no remedial work for our clients after we had finished. The balustrade itself was manufactured from a mild steel flat bar and welded to a steel channel, which we bolted to the staircase, and a steel angle bracket, which we fixed to the landing. It was all tied together with a continuous thin round steel bar that was drilled through the top of each upright for rigidity, as well as a flat steel handrail to match the uprights. It was then powder-coated matte white to help it blend in with the walls and ceilings.

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

These South Shore clients needed a partial update to their kids’ full bath and hired Renovisions to complete the task. After consulting with the clients, they posed a dilemma – they wanted to keep their existing tub and fiberglass surround; however their son, now 16 grew to 6’3” and constantly hit the hand-held showerhead while showering. We recommended a quick and affordable shower transformation, the Hydro Rail shower column. The column was installed without having to alter the in-wall plumbing, while choosing the right column option to accommodate the now higher fixed showerhead and a hand-held shower in matching style. Replacing the shorter under utilized vanity with a taller vanity in white painted finish has plenty of practical storage. The Cambria quartz countertop is a stand-out in this beautifully updated full bath fitted for active teens.

Stable Works will provide labor, material and equipment for the completion of the scope of work outlined below. -Current (22'x8') New (22'x20' with 5'x'5 landing for stairs) -Supply and install deck extension as pictured in rendering - Remove current facia, soffet and header - Temporarily support roof while work is being performed - Move center support beam to against the house (Needed to carry the load of new LVL) - Install new 5 1/2" x 11 7/8" x 22' LVL header - Replace all facia and soffet -All footings will use 4000psi concrete -6"x6" pressure treated supports -Decking will be Fiberon Good Life (Cottage) $2.49 per linear foot) -Railing will be White vinyl "Safe-T-Rail" -Gate at top of steps to be made same as railing. -Fascia and risers will be PVC board to color match -Fix all missing fasteners on current deck -Relocate electrical under new stairs -Add LED low voltage lighting to post caps and stair treads -All trash and debris will be removed from site -Deck area will be power washed after completion

These environmentally conscious homeowners have always hoped for a light and bright kitchen. Having tried new paint and DIY fixes, they knew the next step was a full kitchen remodel. The new kitchen was designed to incorporate more storage, additional countertop space, and a focus on bringing light within the room. White cabinets, custom handmade recycled glass countertops by Dakota Surfaces, and white backsplash surround the room. Bringing in natural light, two additional windows were added with a view of the back yard and two new solatubes were installed for additional natural light. LED solatube light kits were included, LED undercabinet lighting and an LED entry light complete the light package. To tie in the existing home, the existing hardwoods were refinished and stained to match the front of the home along with new millwork and trim in coordinating styles. The whole space provides not only a functional space but a wonderful feeling of sunshine when you walk into the room.

Stable Works will provide labor, material and equipment for the completion of the scope of work outlined below. -Current (22'x8') New (22'x20' with 5'x'5 landing for stairs) -Supply and install deck extension as pictured in rendering - Remove current facia, soffet and header - Temporarily support roof while work is being performed - Move center support beam to against the house (Needed to carry the load of new LVL) - Install new 5 1/2" x 11 7/8" x 22' LVL header - Replace all facia and soffet -All footings will use 4000psi concrete -6"x6" pressure treated supports -Decking will be Fiberon Good Life (Cottage) $2.49 per linear foot) -Railing will be White vinyl "Safe-T-Rail" -Gate at top of steps to be made same as railing. -Fascia and risers will be PVC board to color match -Fix all missing fasteners on current deck -Relocate electrical under new stairs -Add LED low voltage lighting to post caps and stair treads -All trash and debris will be removed from site -Deck area will be power washed after completion

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

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.

In order to transform this pocket-sized 1920s kitchen into a family gathering space, we had to get creative, using the existing kitchen, dining area and enclosed porch. The process was further complicated as the home required a Historic Review due to its age and location. The new design includes subway tile and reclaimed wood, maintaining the room’s charm without compromising modern conveniences. Custom windows were designed to match the original windows, and the original kitchen area was transformed into a fully-functioning breakfast bar, with a twist. The breakfast bar now stores all the fixings the clients need to prep meals for their kids. When company comes over, they can convert it into a full-service bar. The granite-top island is the heart of the kitchen. It serves as both a prep station and the perfect gathering space with chairs. Underneath, the island offers near limitless storage for appliances. The most functional element of the kitchen is also the most loved by the clients — the dining banquette. This beautiful space features a custom bench with storage, custom period-specific windows and a reclaimed walnut tabletop. It’s the perfect place for the family to eat a cozy meal or host friends for dinner.