This charming kitchen renovation seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern functionality, transforming this homeowner’s childhood kitchen into a sophisticated culinary space. Nestled in the picturesque countryside with views from every window, this farmhouse has been a beloved family home for generations. Balancing tradition and timeless design, we incorporated elements that would evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. The kitchen’s glass china hutch takes center stage, adorned with French antique brass cremone bolts. For these cooking enthusiasts, the striking Italian Ilve range with double ovens and a large burner top offer both style and functionality. With its brass detailing, it is truly a showstopper. A custom arched range hood is the crowning complement to this beautiful range. Soft, warm white inset cabinetry is paired with unlacquered brass hardware that will develop a rich patina over time. The Shaws original farm sink adds a classic farmhouse touch, and a handmade Moroccan zellige tile backsplash brings dimension and texture. Brass fixtures, including the bridge sink faucet and pot filler, further enhance the traditional aesthetic, while new designer light fixtures illuminate the space with an inviting glow. Millwork details such as the tongue and groove paneling on the kitchen ceiling & the dining room wainscotting were added to provide depth to the space. The structural beam was wrapped with reclaimed rough-cut barn wood, salvaged from the century-old barn on the property, and the new European white oak hardwood floors further enhance the sense of timeless character. In the adjacent dining room, a natural landscape wallpaper complements the pastural views and the soft colors of the kitchen, combining to create such a serene dining space. The island’s soft sage green echoes the tones of the dining room wallpaper. It also features a hidden rollout baking station with a butcherblock countertop – providing the perfect workspace for creating delicious treats. A black granite countertop pairs with the other black accents of the kitchen – the range, pendant light fixtures, and sunroom door. A wall of built-in pantry cabinets and a beverage bar adds additional storage. The beverage bar is complete with brass rails for lovely display storage. This renovation is a stunning example of how thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship can enhance both form and function, honoring the past while embracing the future. Photos by MK Photography

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.

This thoughtfully renovated flip was designed with both beauty and longevity in mind, featuring an ADA-accessible private suite tailored for aging in place. The layout was fully re-imagined to improve flow and daily functionality—most notably by opening up the main living areas and removing an outdated corner brick fireplace, allowing for smoother circulation and a brighter, more connected home. The primary suite was significantly expanded to create a spacious bedroom, an oversized walk-in closet, and a serene master bathroom, transforming it into a true retreat. A new patio door was added to enhance indoor-outdoor connection and bring in natural light. The kitchen was refreshed with a timeless black-and-white palette, elevated by champagne bronze hardware, updated lighting, and charming shiplap accents. A dedicated coffee bar adds both function and personality, making the space perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Bathrooms were finished with extra-large format porcelain tile on both floors and walls, creating a clean, seamless, and spa-like feel while ensuring durability and easy maintenance. Throughout the main living areas, we installed rustic waterproof wood-look flooring in a mid-tone oak, offering warmth, texture, and long-term performance—ideal for multi-generational living. This renovation balances accessibility, comfort, and modern elegance, proving that a well-designed home can be both future-ready and beautifully timeless.

Inspired by the Spanish-style architecture of a cherished multi-generational family property, this project aimed to transform it into a Spanish Revival masterpiece while preserving its rich history. By honoring the architectural features and majestic shade trees, the landscape was revitalized to create a lush and vibrant environment. Careful selection and incorporation of diverse plant species added aesthetic value and enhanced biodiversity across the expansive two-acre property. Leveraging the presence of large shade trees, a unique microclimate was created, allowing for the cultivation of distinctive plant styles that thrived in their canopy. This project seamlessly integrated "revival" elements, preserving aesthetics and embracing a revitalized future, harmoniously blending lushness, color diversity, and the advantages of existing shade trees.

Kitchen - kitchen idea in Cedar Rapids

This thoughtfully renovated flip was designed with both beauty and longevity in mind, featuring an ADA-accessible private suite tailored for aging in place. The layout was fully re-imagined to improve flow and daily functionality—most notably by opening up the main living areas and removing an outdated corner brick fireplace, allowing for smoother circulation and a brighter, more connected home. The primary suite was significantly expanded to create a spacious bedroom, an oversized walk-in closet, and a serene master bathroom, transforming it into a true retreat. A new patio door was added to enhance indoor-outdoor connection and bring in natural light. The kitchen was refreshed with a timeless black-and-white palette, elevated by champagne bronze hardware, updated lighting, and charming shiplap accents. A dedicated coffee bar adds both function and personality, making the space perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Bathrooms were finished with extra-large format porcelain tile on both floors and walls, creating a clean, seamless, and spa-like feel while ensuring durability and easy maintenance. Throughout the main living areas, we installed rustic waterproof wood-look flooring in a mid-tone oak, offering warmth, texture, and long-term performance—ideal for multi-generational living. This renovation balances accessibility, comfort, and modern elegance, proving that a well-designed home can be both future-ready and beautifully timeless.

Project Overview: This modern ADU build was designed by Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape and pre-fab tech builder NODE. Our Gendai siding with an Amber oil finish clads the exterior. Featured in Dwell, Designmilk and other online architectural publications, this tiny project packs a punch with affordable design and a focus on sustainability. This modern ADU build was designed by Wittman Estes Architecture + Landscape and pre-fab tech builder NODE. Our shou sugi ban Gendai siding with a clear alkyd finish clads the exterior. Featured in Dwell, Designmilk and other online architectural publications, this tiny project packs a punch with affordable design and a focus on sustainability. “A Seattle homeowner hired Wittman Estes to design an affordable, eco-friendly unit to live in her backyard as a way to generate rental income. The modern structure is outfitted with a solar roof that provides all of the energy needed to power the unit and the main house. To make it happen, the firm partnered with NODE, known for their design-focused, carbon negative, non-toxic homes, resulting in Seattle’s first DADU (Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit) with the International Living Future Institute’s (IFLI) zero energy certification.” Product: Gendai 1×6 select grade shiplap Prefinish: Amber Application: Residential – Exterior SF: 350SF Designer: Wittman Estes, NODE Builder: NODE, Don Bunnell Date: November 2018 Location: Seattle, WA Photos courtesy of: Andrew Pogue

Antera Home Elevator The Cibes Symmetry Antera is a next-generation luxury home elevator that combines sophisticated European design with innovative engineering to deliver a truly elevated living experience. Designed for discerning homeowners, architects, and designers, the Antera offers exceptional customization, premium finishes, and advanced technology while making every floor of your home effortlessly accessible. Available in configurations with or without a traditional elevator shaft, the Antera provides remarkable design flexibility for both new custom homes and home renovation projects. Its space-efficient engineering minimizes construction requirements while offering the refined appearance and smooth performance expected from a premium residential elevator. Every Antera is built to complement your home's unique style with customizable cab finishes, elegant lighting, designer fixtures, and modern materials. Whether your vision is contemporary, transitional, or classic, the Antera becomes a seamless extension of your home's architecture while enhancing comfort, convenience, and long-term accessibility. Powered by Cibes Symmetry's proven machine-room-less (MRL) technology, the Antera delivers exceptionally quiet, smooth, and reliable operation with reduced maintenance requirements compared to many traditional residential elevator systems. Advanced safety features, intuitive controls, emergency communication, battery-powered emergency lowering, and intelligent obstruction detection provide peace of mind for homeowners and their families. Perfect For: Luxury custom homes Aging in place Wheelchair accessibility Multigenerational living New home construction Home renovations and remodels Universal Design and accessible living The Cibes Symmetry Antera is designed for homeowners who want more than just accessibility—it is a statement of luxury, innovation, and thoughtful design. With its flexible installation options, premium craftsmanship, and cutting-edge engineering, the Antera delivers a beautiful, future-ready home elevator that adds lasting value, convenience, and elegance to any residence.

This charming kitchen renovation seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern functionality, transforming this homeowner’s childhood kitchen into a sophisticated culinary space. Nestled in the picturesque countryside with views from every window, this farmhouse has been a beloved family home for generations. Balancing tradition and timeless design, we incorporated elements that would evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. The kitchen’s glass china hutch takes center stage, adorned with French antique brass cremone bolts. For these cooking enthusiasts, the striking Italian Ilve range with double ovens and a large burner top offer both style and functionality. With its brass detailing, it is truly a showstopper. A custom arched range hood is the crowning complement to this beautiful range. Soft, warm white inset cabinetry is paired with unlacquered brass hardware that will develop a rich patina over time. The Shaws original farm sink adds a classic farmhouse touch, and a handmade Moroccan zellige tile backsplash brings dimension and texture. Brass fixtures, including the bridge sink faucet and pot filler, further enhance the traditional aesthetic, while new designer light fixtures illuminate the space with an inviting glow. Millwork details such as the tongue and groove paneling on the kitchen ceiling & the dining room wainscotting were added to provide depth to the space. The structural beam was wrapped with reclaimed rough-cut barn wood, salvaged from the century-old barn on the property, and the new European white oak hardwood floors further enhance the sense of timeless character. In the adjacent dining room, a natural landscape wallpaper complements the pastural views and the soft colors of the kitchen, combining to create such a serene dining space. The island’s soft sage green echoes the tones of the dining room wallpaper. It also features a hidden rollout baking station with a butcherblock countertop – providing the perfect workspace for creating delicious treats. A black granite countertop pairs with the other black accents of the kitchen – the range, pendant light fixtures, and sunroom door. A wall of built-in pantry cabinets and a beverage bar adds additional storage. The beverage bar is complete with brass rails for lovely display storage. This renovation is a stunning example of how thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship can enhance both form and function, honoring the past while embracing the future. Photos by MK Photography

Finished basement in West Chester, PA Cherry Creek Farm community with: theater area with soft separation by stone and walnut columns and LED lighted tray ceiling, Runco projector, 108" screen surrounded by stone columns, walnut wood work, LED lights, and custom walnut component cabinet with slots for subwoofer. 10' x 9' walnut built in, steam shower bathroom with Steam Spa steam generator, frameless glass, wine cellar with custom walnut wine racks, LED lights, spray foam insulation and vapor barrier, exercise room, ready for future bar, India accent lighted wall pocket, plenty CAT 6 network/media wiring, bar, copper bar top, 2 level bar, bar sink, bar cabinets

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey. The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical. Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored. The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

For generations, low-maintenance Mastic siding from Ply Gem has been the #1 choice among homeowners, builders and remodelers. Solid and tough, Mastic premium siding stands up to extreme weather, requires little maintenance, and is an eco-friendly choice for your family. Best of all, you're covered with an industry leading V.I.P. limited lifetime warranty backed by Ply Gem, the 75-year leader in pioneering performance home exteriors.

Located in Palo Alto's flood zone, this Eichler home underwent a phased renovation thoughtfully redesigned to accommodate a growing family of five, with an emphasis on school proximity and nearby grandparents. The bedroom wing was completely reconfigured, including a new front addition as a guest suite for grandparents, expanding the house to five bedrooms and three baths. Taller 9-foot ceilings were introduced in some areas, enhancing the overall openness—a lofty goal for an Eichler. The tranquil courtyard, a favorite spot for the family, was redesigned to allow parents to watch the kids while cooking. The backyard became a relaxing lounging area connected to the living room. Once dark living spaces were modernized by removing a low-hanging beam in the kitchen, adding skylights for natural light, and eliminating the fireplace to create a more functional entertainment space. Finally, new landscaping reflecting the client's heritage and some of the home's architectural elements, creates a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA and Angela Alexander Interior Architecture: Klopf Architecture Bathroom Materials and Light Fixture Selection: Lucile Glessner Landscape Architect: Thuilot and Associates Photography: ©2024 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Palo Alto, CA

This thoughtfully renovated flip was designed with both beauty and longevity in mind, featuring an ADA-accessible private suite tailored for aging in place. The layout was fully re-imagined to improve flow and daily functionality—most notably by opening up the main living areas and removing an outdated corner brick fireplace, allowing for smoother circulation and a brighter, more connected home. The primary suite was significantly expanded to create a spacious bedroom, an oversized walk-in closet, and a serene master bathroom, transforming it into a true retreat. A new patio door was added to enhance indoor-outdoor connection and bring in natural light. The kitchen was refreshed with a timeless black-and-white palette, elevated by champagne bronze hardware, updated lighting, and charming shiplap accents. A dedicated coffee bar adds both function and personality, making the space perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Bathrooms were finished with extra-large format porcelain tile on both floors and walls, creating a clean, seamless, and spa-like feel while ensuring durability and easy maintenance. Throughout the main living areas, we installed rustic waterproof wood-look flooring in a mid-tone oak, offering warmth, texture, and long-term performance—ideal for multi-generational living. This renovation balances accessibility, comfort, and modern elegance, proving that a well-designed home can be both future-ready and beautifully timeless.

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey. The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical. Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored. The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

A multi-valent overhaul of a steep mountain property damaged by The Flood and at risk of future degradation. We made room for an outdoor living space by broadening an old fire roadbed using ancient stonework tactics (and a couple of backhoes) to shore up the slopes about and below. We performed extensive erosion mitigation all over the site while making aesthetic improvements. To give the owners access to the overlook far above their home, we built a trail to last generations and accommodate users of all abilities. Patio concrete, cobble, and fire pit by others.

Fulfilling a vision of the future to gather an expanding family, the open home is designed for multi-generational use, while also supporting the everyday lifestyle of the two homeowners. The home is flush with natural light and expansive views of the landscape in an established Wisconsin village. Charming European homes, rich with interesting details and fine millwork, inspired the design for the Modern European Residence. The theming is rooted in historical European style, but modernized through simple architectural shapes and clean lines that steer focus to the beautifully aligned details. Ceiling beams, wallpaper treatments, rugs and furnishings create definition to each space, and fabrics and patterns stand out as visual interest and subtle additions of color. A brighter look is achieved through a clean neutral color palette of quality natural materials in warm whites and lighter woods, contrasting with color and patterned elements. The transitional background creates a modern twist on a traditional home that delivers the desired formal house with comfortable elegance.

Finished basement in West Chester, PA Cherry Creek Farm community with: theater area with soft separation by stone and walnut columns and LED lighted tray ceiling, Runco projector, 108" screen surrounded by stone columns, walnut wood work, LED lights, and custom walnut component cabinet with slots for subwoofer. 10' x 9' walnut built in, steam shower bathroom with Steam Spa steam generator, frameless glass, wine cellar with custom walnut wine racks, LED lights, spray foam insulation and vapor barrier, exercise room, ready for future bar, India accent lighted wall pocket, plenty CAT 6 network/media wiring, bar, copper bar top, 2 level bar, bar sink, bar cabinets

This emerald river flowing through spalted maple grain is absolutely stunning in person and would be a beautiful show piece in a home or office. Solidly constructed yet delicately detailed, our artisans have just finished this labor of love and it is ready to be enjoyed by many people for many generations to come. If you are interested in this custom Ed Allen Designs future heirloom, reach out to us! This highly figured Big Leaf Maple Burl piece measures 75” by 37”.