Entry looking into firewise landscape. Photography by Lucas Henning.
This is an example of a mid-sized industrial concrete front porch design in Seattle with a roof extension.

Clean lines and a refined material palette transformed the Moss Hill House master bath into an open, light-filled space appropriate to its 1960 modern character. Underlying the design is a thoughtful intent to maximize opportunities within the long narrow footprint. Minimizing project cost and disruption, fixture locations were generally maintained. All interior walls and existing soaking tub were removed, making room for a large walk-in shower. Large planes of glass provide definition and maintain desired openness, allowing daylight from clerestory windows to fill the space. Light-toned finishes and large format tiles throughout offer an uncluttered vision. Polished marble “circles” provide textural contrast and small-scale detail, while an oak veneered vanity adds additional warmth. In-floor radiant heat, reclaimed veneer, dimming controls, and ample daylighting are important sustainable features. This renovation converted a well-worn room into one with a modern functionality and a visual timelessness that will take it into the future. Photographed by: place, inc

An Arts & Crafts Bungalow is one of my favorite styles of homes. We have quite a few of them in our Stockton Mid-Town area. And when C&L called us to help them remodel their 1923 American Bungalow, I was beyond thrilled. As per usual, when we get a new inquiry, we quickly Google the project location while we are talking to you on the phone. My excitement escalated when I saw the Google Earth Image of the sweet Sage Green bungalow in Mid-Town Stockton. "Yes, we would be interested in working with you," I said trying to keep my cool. But what made it even better was meeting C&L and touring their home, because they are the nicest young couple, eager to make their home period perfect. Unfortunately, it had been slightly molested by some bad house-flippers, and we needed to bring the bathroom back to it "roots." We knew we had to banish the hideous brown tile and cheap vanity quickly. But C&L complained about the condensation problems and the constant fight with mold. This immediately told me that improper remodeling had occurred and we needed to remedy that right away. The Before: Frustrations with a Botched Remodel The bathroom needed to be brought back to period appropriate design with all the functionality of a modern bathroom. We thought of things like marble countertop, white mosaic floor tiles, white subway tile, board and batten molding, and of course a fabulous wallpaper. This small (and only) bathroom on a tight budget required a little bit of design sleuthing to figure out how we could get the proper look and feel. Our goal was to determine where to splurge and where to economize and how to complete the remodel as quickly as possible because C&L would have to move out while construction was going on. The Process: Hard Work to Remedy Design and Function During our initial design study, (which included 2 hours in the owners’ home), we noticed framed images of William Morris Arts and Crafts textile patterns and knew this would be our design inspiration. We presented C&L with three options and they quickly selected the Pimpernel Design Concept. We had originally selected the Black and Olive colors with a black vanity, mirror, and black and white floor tile. C&L liked it but weren’t quite sure about the black, We went back to the drawing board and decided the William & Co Pimpernel Wallpaper in Bayleaf and Manilla color with a softer gray painted vanity and mirror and white floor tile was more to their liking. After the Design Concept was approved, we went to work securing the building permit, procuring all the elements, and scheduling our trusted tradesmen to perform the work. We did uncover some shoddy work by the flippers such as live electrical wires hidden behind the wall, plumbing venting cut-off and buried in the walls (hence the constant dampness), the tub barely balancing on two fence boards across the floor joist, and no insulation on the exterior wall. All of the previous blunders were fixed and the bathroom put back to its previous glory. We could feel the house thanking us for making it pretty again. The After Reveal: Cohesive Design Decisions We selected a simple white subway tile for the tub/shower. This is always classic and in keeping with the style of the house. We selected a pre-fab vanity and mirror, but they look rich with the quartz countertop. There is much more storage in this small vanity than you would think. The Transformation: A Period Perfect Refresh We began the remodel just as the pandemic reared and stay-in-place orders went into effect. As C&L were already moved out and living with relatives, we got the go-ahead from city officials to get the work done (after all, how can you shelter in place without a bathroom?). All our tradesmen were scheduled to work so that only one crew was on the job site at a time. We stayed on the original schedule with only a one week delay. The end result is the sweetest little bathroom I've ever seen (and I can't wait to start work on C&L's kitchen next). Thank you for joining me in this project transformation. I hope this inspired you to think about being creative with your design projects, determining what works best in keeping with the architecture of your space, and carefully assessing how you can have the best life in your home.

This kitchen features matching double islands – one as a prep work workstation and the second for entertaining/gathering – both serving different yet equally important functions and appropriate to the grand scale of the house. One of the designer’s favorite features is the dropped ceiling above the islands (which is backlit) which connects and balances the spaces. The cabinetry is a 5/4 thick overlay door in a transitional slant style, and houses multiple refrigeration and freezer units and appliance storage. The kitchen is fully equipped with every modern appliance a cook could want – from a steam oven, wine column, double ovens and a coffee station. The island is a driftwood-finished white oak, and the countertops are nano glass with the exception of the waterfall-edge island in statuary marble. The exquisite backsplash is a shimmery mother of pearl, which adds sparkle and shine throughout the space. The custom-designed enamel-covered hood is the show-stopping focal point of the room.

This clients Bedroom was actually too large and didn't have enough closet space which is not uncommon for a premium spec home by a National Builder / Developer. Our goal was to create an Owner's Bedroom Suite that felt more intimate and cozy as opposed to vast open space. In addition, more wardrobe space was a 'must have'. We took the over-sized bedroom with cathedral ceiling and created smaller ancillary spaces like a sitting nook, walk-in wardrobe and shoe & accessory closet. We flattened out the cathedral ceiling to create a contemporary tray ceiling with ambient light. By re-scaling the room, we added more storage and functional spaces that created a sense of purpose, intimacy and coziness. The result was a welcoming bedroom that is scaled appropriately for the Owner's furniture and art collection.

This kitchen features matching double islands – one as a prep work workstation and the second for entertaining/gathering – both serving different yet equally important functions and appropriate to the grand scale of the house. One of the designer’s favorite features is the dropped ceiling above the islands (which is backlit) which connects and balances the spaces. The cabinetry is a 5/4 thick overlay door in a transitional slant style, and houses multiple refrigeration and freezer units and appliance storage. The kitchen is fully equipped with every modern appliance a cook could want – from a steam oven, wine column, double ovens and a coffee station. The island is a driftwood-finished white oak, and the countertops are nano glass with the exception of the waterfall-edge island in statuary marble. The exquisite backsplash is a shimmery mother of pearl, which adds sparkle and shine throughout the space. The custom-designed enamel-covered hood is the show-stopping focal point of the room.

Bigger is not always better, but something of highest quality is. This amazing, size-appropriate Lake Michigan cottage is just that. Nestled in an existing historic stretch of Lake Michigan cottages, this new construction was built to fit in the neighborhood, but outperform any other home in the area concerning energy consumption, LEED certification and functionality. It features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open concept kitchen/living room, a separate mudroom entrance and a separate laundry. This small (but smart) cottage is perfect for any family simply seeking a retreat without the stress of a big lake home. The interior details include quartz and granite countertops, stainless appliances, quarter-sawn white oak floors, Pella windows, and beautiful finishing fixtures. The dining area was custom designed, custom built, and features both new and reclaimed elements. The exterior displays Smart-Side siding and trim details and has a large EZE-Breeze screen porch for additional dining and lounging. This home owns all the best products and features of a beach house, with no wasted space. Cottage Home is the premiere builder on the shore of Lake Michigan, between the Indiana border and Holland.

This kitchen features matching double islands – one as a prep work workstation and the second for entertaining/gathering – both serving different yet equally important functions and appropriate to the grand scale of the house. One of the designer’s favorite features is the dropped ceiling above the islands (which is backlit) which connects and balances the spaces. The cabinetry is a 5/4 thick overlay door in a transitional slant style, and houses multiple refrigeration and freezer units and appliance storage. The kitchen is fully equipped with every modern appliance a cook could want – from a steam oven, wine column, double ovens and a coffee station. The island is a driftwood-finished white oak, and the countertops are nano glass with the exception of the waterfall-edge island in statuary marble. The exquisite backsplash is a shimmery mother of pearl, which adds sparkle and shine throughout the space. The custom-designed enamel-covered hood is the show-stopping focal point of the room.

Clean lines and a refined material palette transformed the Moss Hill House master bath into an open, light-filled space appropriate to its 1960 modern character. Underlying the design is a thoughtful intent to maximize opportunities within the long narrow footprint. Minimizing project cost and disruption, fixture locations were generally maintained. All interior walls and existing soaking tub were removed, making room for a large walk-in shower. Large planes of glass provide definition and maintain desired openness, allowing daylight from clerestory windows to fill the space. Light-toned finishes and large format tiles throughout offer an uncluttered vision. Polished marble “circles” provide textural contrast and small-scale detail, while an oak veneered vanity adds additional warmth. In-floor radiant heat, reclaimed veneer, dimming controls, and ample daylighting are important sustainable features. This renovation converted a well-worn room into one with a modern functionality and a visual timelessness that will take it into the future. Photographed by: place, inc

Photo by Paul Burk
Example of a transitional galley light wood floor kitchen design in DC Metro with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, blue backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This caribbean themed bathroom offers exactly what the client wanted…. a large shower and tub, vanity space with makeup area, and an abundance of sunlight to whisk them away to a warmer place.

Another happy client! Mafi International features magnificent rugs, hand-knotted in India and Nepal, and we have a showroom at the Seattle Design Center. We pride ourselves on our custom rug program. Mafi International is the Seattle Stickley authorized dealer! Clean lines and pureness of function make the Stickley Mission Collection truly timeless, and the look is as appropriate in today's homes as it was over a century ago. Possessing a distinguished pedigree yet uniquely modern, Mission furniture makes itself at home in every room of the house, telling the world that you appreciate sophisticated comfort and solid craftsmanship.

Bigger is not always better, but something of highest quality is. This amazing, size-appropriate Lake Michigan cottage is just that. Nestled in an existing historic stretch of Lake Michigan cottages, this new construction was built to fit in the neighborhood, but outperform any other home in the area concerning energy consumption, LEED certification and functionality. It features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open concept kitchen/living room, a separate mudroom entrance and a separate laundry. This small (but smart) cottage is perfect for any family simply seeking a retreat without the stress of a big lake home. The interior details include quartz and granite countertops, stainless appliances, quarter-sawn white oak floors, Pella windows, and beautiful finishing fixtures. The dining area was custom designed, custom built, and features both new and reclaimed elements. The exterior displays Smart-Side siding and trim details and has a large EZE-Breeze screen porch for additional dining and lounging. This home owns all the best products and features of a beach house, with no wasted space. Cottage Home is the premiere builder on the shore of Lake Michigan, between the Indiana border and Holland.

This clients Bedroom was actually too large and didn't have enough closet space which is not uncommon for a premium spec home by a National Builder / Developer. Our goal was to create an Owner's Bedroom Suite that felt more intimate and cozy as opposed to vast open space. In addition, more wardrobe space was a 'must have'. We took the over-sized bedroom with cathedral ceiling and created smaller ancillary spaces like a sitting nook, walk-in wardrobe and shoe & accessory closet. We flattened out the cathedral ceiling to create a contemporary tray ceiling with ambient light. By re-scaling the room, we added more storage and functional spaces that created a sense of purpose, intimacy and coziness. The result was a welcoming bedroom that is scaled appropriately for the Owner's furniture and art collection.

What a fun yet challenging project. After numerous space plan options, we've finally decided on removing a wall and switching it out with cabinetry that is functional for a kitchen and the dining area. We've added a peninsula at a 120 degree corner to expand the working surface, add bar seating and still keep the space open and inviting from adjoining spaces. Blueberry oak cabinets with satin brass hardware are balanced out with white quartz countertop and gray uppers. Wide plank vinyl helped keep this space masculine and formal while the stairs add a softer touch that's being complimented by warm tone furniture. To tie in warmth and masculinity, we've opted for custom miter-cut shelves in the corner. Windows give us great light and a corner cabinet can block a lot of it out, so floating shelves seemed most appropriate (no visible hardware). With a lot of material and colors, space still seems cohesive and inviting. Very formal, yet ready to be used for entertaining and day to day living. Hale Production Studios

This clients Bedroom was actually too large and didn't have enough closet space which is not uncommon for a premium spec home by a National Builder / Developer. Our goal was to create an Owner's Bedroom Suite that felt more intimate and cozy as opposed to vast open space. In addition, more wardrobe space was a 'must have'. We took the over-sized bedroom with cathedral ceiling and created smaller ancillary spaces like a sitting nook, walk-in wardrobe and shoe & accessory closet. We flattened out the cathedral ceiling to create a contemporary tray ceiling with ambient light. By re-scaling the room, we added more storage and functional spaces that created a sense of purpose, intimacy and coziness. The result was a welcoming bedroom that is scaled appropriately for the Owner's furniture and art collection.

This clients Bedroom was actually too large and didn't have enough closet space which is not uncommon for a premium spec home by a National Builder / Developer. Our goal was to create an Owner's Bedroom Suite that felt more intimate and cozy as opposed to vast open space. In addition, more wardrobe space was a 'must have'. We took the over-sized bedroom with cathedral ceiling and created smaller ancillary spaces like a sitting nook, walk-in wardrobe and shoe & accessory closet. We flattened out the cathedral ceiling to create a contemporary tray ceiling with ambient light. By re-scaling the room, we added more storage and functional spaces that created a sense of purpose, intimacy and coziness. The result was a welcoming bedroom that is scaled appropriately for the Owner's furniture and art collection.

Mafi International features magnificent rugs, hand-knotted in India and Nepal, and we have a showroom at the Seattle Design Center. We pride ourselves on our custom rug program. Mafi International is the Seattle Stickley authorized dealer! Clean lines and pureness of function make the Stickley Mission Collection truly timeless, and the look is as appropriate in today's homes as it was over a century ago. Possessing a distinguished pedigree yet uniquely modern, Mission furniture makes itself at home in every room of the house, telling the world that you appreciate sophisticated comfort and solid craftsmanship.

In this bedroom, there was no conventional closet space to be remodeled, so the key was to creatively appropriate an unused area of the room. Along one wall, 24 unused inches received a higher calling. It begged to serve as a two foot deep, built-in custom closet system. The doors and the drawers sport a comforting cocoa bean finish. Raised panel fronts enrich the look and are accented by Oil Rub Bronze handles. The closet is framed with crown molding and base, with shoe, which enrich an already opulent look. While it is great to have a fabulous looking exterior, the real payoff comes with what is delivered by the functionality of the closet. This closet spins up a jackpot. The hardware inside the closet echoes the Oil Rub Bronze on the outside. Open the doors to reveal ample area for hanging. Several open shelves provide convenient storage for sweaters and pants. Last, the drawers supply the final touch for socks and undergarments. But that’s not quite the final touch… don’t miss that LED lighting. You can actually see in this closet! A convenient in-closet push button control enables you to command the lighting when you want it and without looking for a switch on the wall.