Search results for "Grade update" in Home Design Ideas

Simply apply a MirrorMate frame to your existing bathroom mirror in just minutes. The do-it-yourself frame kit is easy to install and ships to your door. It'll transform your builder's grade mirror and add quality, custom detailing to the room and is designed to cover the clips that hold your mirror. It also covers the de-silvering edge in the process. See all 65+ frames styles available and order samples to help pick the right look for your room. This space was finished with a Chelsea Silver Streak frame, simply applied to the existing mirror.

Houston Interior Designer Lisha Maxey took this Museum District condo from the dated, mirrored walls of the 1980s to Mid Century Modern with a gallery look featuring the client's art collection.
"The place was covered with glued-down, floor-to-ceiling mirrors," says Lisha Maxey, senior designer for Homescapes of Houston and principal at LGH Design Services in Houston. "When we took them off the walls, the walls came apart. We ended up taking them down to the studs."
The makeover took six months to complete, primarily because of strict condo association rules that only gave the Houston interior designers very limited access to the elevator - through which all materials and team members had to go.
"Monday through Friday, we could only be noisy from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and if we had to do something extra loud, like sawing or drilling, we had to schedule it with the management and they had to communicate that to the condo owners. So it was just a lot of coordination. But a lot of Inner City Loopers live in these kinds of buildings, so we're used to handling that kind of thing."
The client, a child psychiatrist in her 60s, recently moved to Houston from northeast Texas to be with friends. After being widowed three years ago, she decided it was time to let go of the traditionally styled estate that wasn't really her style anyway. An avid diver who has traveled around the world to pursue her passion, she has amassed a large collection of art from her travels. Downsizing to 1,600 feet and wanting to go more contemporary, she wanted the display - and the look - more streamlined.
"She wanted clean lines and muted colors, with the main focus being her artwork," says Maxey. "So we made the space a palette for that."
Enter the white, gallery-grade paint she chose for the walls: "It's halfway between satin and flat," explains Maxey. "It's not glossy and it's not chalky - just very smooth and clean."
Adding to the gallery theme is the satin nickel track lighting with lamps aimed to highlight pieces of art. "This lighting has no wires," notes Maxey. "It's powered by a positive and negative conduit."
The new flooring throughout is a blended-grey porcelain tile that looks like wood planks. "It's gorgeous, natural-looking and combines all the beauty of wood with the durability of tile," says Maxey. "We used it throughout the condo to unify the space."
After Maxey started looking at the client's bright, vibrant, colorful artwork, she felt the palette couldn't stay as muted anymore. Hence the Mid Century Modern orange leather sofas from West Elm and chartruese chairs from Joybird, plus the throw pillows in different textures, patterns and shades of gold, orange and green.
The concave lines of the Danish-inspired chairs, she notes, help them look beautiful from all the way around - a key to designing spaces for loft living.
"The table in the living room is very interesting," notes Maxey. "It was handmade for the client in 1974 and has a signature on it from the artist. She was adamant about including the piece, which has all these hand-painted black-and-white art tiles on the top. I took one look at it and said 'It's not really going to go.'"
However, after cutting 6 inches off the bottom and making it look a little distressed, the table ended up being the perfect complement to the sofas.
The dining room table - from Design Within Reach - is a solid piece of mahogany, the chair upholstery a mix of grey velvet and leather and the legs a shiny brass. "The side chairs are leather and the end ones are velvet," says Maxey. "It's a nice textural mix that lends depth and texture."
The galley kitchen, meanwhile, has been lightened and brightened, with white quartz countertops and backsplashes mimicking the look of Carrara marble, stainless steel appliances and a velvet green bench seat for a punch of color. The cabinets are painted a cool grey color called "Silverplate."
The two bathrooms have been updated with contemporary white vanities and vessel sinks and the master bath now features a walk-in shower tiled in Dolomite white marble (the floor is Bianco Carrara marble mosaic, done in a herringbone pattern.
In the master bedroom, Homescapes of Houston knocked down a wall between two smaller closets with swing doors to make one large walk-in closet with pocket doors. The closet in the guest bedroom also came out 13 more inches.
The client's artwork throughout personalizes the space and tells the story of a life. There's a huge bowl of shells from the client's diving adventures, framed art from her child psychiatry patients and a 16th century wood carving from a monastery that's been in her family forever.
"Her collection is quite impressive," says Maxey. "There's even a framed piece of autographed songs written by John Lennon." (You can see this black-framed piece of art on the wall in the photo above of two green chairs).
"We're extremely happy with how the project turned out, and so is the client," says Maxey. "No expense was spared for her. It was a labor of love and we were excited to do it."

We created an open concept kitchen with keeping room from a closed off kitchen with tight layout. The oversized island comfortably seats 5 in an L-shaped arrangement. The white shaker style cabinets have a rustic, yet refined farmhouse look that is accentuated by the gorgeous oiled wood counter top. Ample island storage with specialized pull-outs, deep drawers and classic pulls make the island the heart of this home. The chef grade gas cooktop is crowned with a beautiful custom hood with vent insert and roman style brick wall tile with a herringbone pattern accent. The granite counters along the L-shaped outer walls blends the dark and light tones found through the home. A shiny metal farmhouse sink with dimpled texture is centered on the window overlooking the courtyard garden. Unique storage features such as a pull-out recycling center, pet food drawer, coffee station, recessed bread box / appliance garage, spice columns and plastic wrap pull-out provide ease of use and an organizers dream come true. A hidden walk-in pantry is seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry providing a secret reservoir of storage potential. Daylight floods the space and spills into the adjacent family room and formal dining room. Entertaining is easy in this clean crisp new kitchen redesigned for large family gatherings and intimate dinners at home. Photos By: Kimberly Kerl, Kustom Home Design
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My traditional home's kitchen/family room needed a face lift. The layout works for me so I was able to save money by not having to re-design it. It's currently in the process of being finished and will be updated accordingly.
I wanted to finish out the oak hardwood floors that are in the rest of the first floor, that was my first priority. The second was to change out the lighting from builders grade fluorescent to recessed and a crystal chandelier over an expanded island.
I wasn't in need of a desk area in the kitchen so a drybar was a must. A lady must have a place for her wine!
I decided to use Kitchen Savers for the remodel and they've been amazing. I highly recommend them. I will be finishing out the paint, crown molding and backsplash on my own.

Project Description: Warm Modern Kitchen + Bath Refresh
This kitchen remodel blends warm, rich materials with durable, modern functionality. We elevated the space with custom cherry wood cabinetry, bringing timeless elegance and a sense of craftsmanship to the heart of the home. The countertops and full-height backsplash feature Mystere Gold Quartz from ARC Surfaces—a creamy, ivory-toned quartz with subtle gold veining. This material is not only visually striking but also non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance—ideal for everyday use.
Fixtures include a Kohler Vibrant Stainless kitchen faucet, Kohler undermount single-bowl sink, and flat black cabinet hardware, all sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring in collaboration with KellyJo. The hardwood flooring throughout was carefully sanded, refinished, and stained using a custom mix from DuraSeal, adding depth and warmth to every step.
For the bathroom, we kept the updates minimal yet impactful: we installed a new vanity top using the same quartz, Moen Doux brushed nickel faucets, and Kohler Caxton undermount sinks—all also sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring. The continuity in materials ties the spaces together and maintains a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
Design & Build:
Veron Builders LLC + Boulder Design Group
Vendors & Materials:
Cabinetry: Custom Cherry
Countertops/Backsplash: Mystere Gold Quartz – ARC Surfaces
Kitchen Fixtures: Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Bathroom Fixtures: Moen + Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Hardwood Floors: Refinished & custom-stained – DuraSeal
This project is a beautiful example of how selective upgrades and premium materials can completely transform the look and feel of a home while maintaining warmth, function, and personal style.

Add a MirrorMate frame to your existing bathroom mirror in just minutes. The do-it-yourself frame kit is easy to install on your pre-existing mirror. It'll transform your builder's grade mirror and add quality, custom detailing to the room and is designed to cover the clips that hold your mirror. It also covers the de-silvering edge in the process. See all 65+ frames styles available and order samples to help pick the right look for your room. @nissalynninteriors used Cherokee Montauk Sand for this beautiful, unified look.

Complete update on this 'builder-grade' 1990's primary bathroom - not only to improve the look but also the functionality of this room. Such an inspiring and relaxing space now ...

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
HomeCraft Remodeling
Custom Craftsmanship & Build Solutions in Franklin County, Ohio

This full home transformation in Hayward, California, blends warm minimalism with intelligent design and high-end finishes. Casa Utopia Builders worked closely with the homeowner to deliver a modern sanctuary featuring a fully remodeled kitchen, three spa-style bathrooms, a new open-concept living area, and extensive updates throughout.
Kitchen Remodel
Custom Shaker-style cabinetry with soft-close doors
Quartz slab countertops with full backsplash
Professional-grade range, vent hood, and pot filler
Matte black faucet, oversized undermount sink, and pendant lighting
Integrated seating with rattan-backed island stools

Add a frame to your existing bathroom mirror in just minutes. The do-it-yourself frame kit is easy to install on your pre-existing mirror. It'll transform your builder's grade mirror and add quality, custom detailing to the room. See all 65+ frames styles available.
MirrorMate bathroom transformation using Chelsea Espresso frame.

An unfortunate flood in the laundry room created an opportunity to upgrade the master bathroom from builder grade finishes, to custom choices. Taking out the large built in tub, and replacing it with a generous oval soaking tub, opened up the space. We added a tile accent wall to create a back drop for the new tub. New faucets and fixtures in brushed nickel helped update the space. The shower has coordinating crisp white and blue penny tile. The new floor is a grey washed wood looking tile that feels like a beach board walk. The overall feel is clean and modern with a coastal vibe.

Our client had recently purchased a townhouse by Frick Park and knew she wanted to upgrade the builder-grade kitchen to better meet her needs. We decided to work with the existing layout of the kitchen as we optimized storage and increased functionality of the space. One request made by our client was for the addition of an island, which became a focal point of the kitchen. We sourced a specific slab of natural stone for the countertop, which featured green veining that paired beautifully with the green cabinetry of the island.
The main kitchen area was updated with timeless cabinetry that featured a more muted paint color for a two-toned look, and recycled glass countertops requested specifically by our client. We also designed and built a multipurpose area for the wine refrigerator and microwave, and incorporated wall cabinets to display glassware and decor and increase storage. Custom lighting was also built into all cabinets and thoughtfully hidden for a seamless look.
Another aspect of the project was the installation of an elevator near the kitchen that allows our client to effortlessly travel from the first to the second and third floors as she ages in place in the home. The result was a home thoughtfully designed and built to serve our client for years to come.

cabinets in Teak, professional grade appliances, induction cook top by Thermador,
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped slate floor eat-in kitchen photo in Denver with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, brown backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped slate floor eat-in kitchen photo in Denver with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, brown backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Add a frame to your existing bathroom mirror in just minutes. The do-it-yourself frame kit is easy to install on your pre-existing mirror. It'll transform your builder's grade mirror and add quality, custom detailing to the room and is designed to cover the clips that hold your mirror. It also covers the de-silvering edge in the process. See all 65+ frames styles available and order samples to help pick the right look for your room. This customer chose the style Newport Weathered White. It really works with their shiplap accent wall.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Snider & Metcalf Interior Design, LTD
Leading Interior Designers in Columbus, Ohio & Ponte Vedra, Florida

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, GREEN REMODELING INTERIOR
This couple wanted to update their kitchen and first floor, using environmentally-friendly products in the process. Making it green, safe and contemporary were the goals of this renovation.
The new kitchen layout with the center island has made getting around this central kitchen more possible. Taller, custom cabinetry has improved the overall storage and accessibility. The open concept design makes the space the hub of the home.
Green, safe and contemporary features make this project the jewel of the neighborhood. These features include:
• Use of custom-made Douglas Fir slab cabinetry (engineered wood veneer from younger growth trees) with low shin finish (low VOC water based finish) and kilned dried select hardwood frames construction without use of any formaldehyde glues.
• Use of no VOC paint on entire interior and exterior.
• Manufacturing and installing 12” x 12 ft x ¾” solid birch hardwood floor for entire first floor. This was finished with Low-VOC water based finish.
• Reuse of some of the existing lumber and plywood in the same project was essential.
• Installing LED recess lighting and task lighting with Lurton Home system lighting management and controllable low voltage dimmers.
• Installing high efficiency with the highest rating of Energy Star appliances.
• Installing high grade closed cell insulation in walls and open space, caulking and sealing all open gaps.
• Install large double pane-low E, argon filled gas windows.
• Use of air tight insulated duct chases on all new ducts.
The homeowners, who are active members of wildlife preservations, are pleased with green and environmentally safe kitchen and entire first floor project.

This full-yard renovation replaced aging flagstone and plants with a clean, modern, and low-maintenance layout — all designed with intention.
Here’s what we delivered:
- Removed old flagstone decking, retaining walls, curbing, grass, palms & a large ficus
- Cleared + graded the yard and prepped for a fresh layout
- Installed a fully updated irrigation system — valves, timer, pressure regulator, PVC & bubblers
- Laid 460 sq ft of travertine decking with a 3-piece pattern + matching borders and stair pads
- Built a 17’ CMU block wall with 3 columns, smooth stucco finish, and travertine cap
- Installed LED lighting: path lights, tree spots, and courtyard ledge lighting
- Planted 15 desert-adapted plants and a statement 36" box Sonoran Emerald
- Installed 380 sq ft of 80oz Daytona synthetic turf for year-round green
- Finished with Table Mesa Brown granite and boulder accents for contrast and texture

Add a frame to your existing bathroom mirror in just minutes. The do-it-yourself frame kit is easy to install on your pre-existing mirror. It'll transform your builder's grade mirror and add quality, custom detailing to the room. See all 65+ frames styles available.
MirrorMate bathroom transformation using Mediterra Glazed Earth frame

Complete update on this 'builder-grade' 1990's primary bathroom - not only to improve the look but also the functionality of this room. Such an inspiring and relaxing space now ...

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
HomeCraft Remodeling
Custom Craftsmanship & Build Solutions in Franklin County, Ohio

This media room in Richardson, TX was created by adding a riser, updating the carpet and adding two rows of theater seating featuring The Palliser Mendoza in a grade 2000 Classic Sandstone leather.

When a professional office space needs to make a lasting impression on clients and create an inspiring environment for staff, the design details matter just as much as they do at home. This thoughtful commercial interior refresh transformed a dated, purely functional office into a warm, sophisticated, and beautifully layered space — one that feels more like a high-end boutique or luxury residence than a typical workplace.
The guiding philosophy throughout was clear: every space, no matter how utilitarian its purpose, deserves intentional design. From the reception corridor to the staff break room, from the client restrooms to the storage corridor, each area received careful attention to finish, color, and texture.
Restrooms Reimagined
The two client-facing restrooms were the most dramatic transformations in the project. Rather than the builder-grade wallpaper and basic fixtures typically found in commercial spaces, both were treated as true design moments.
The first features floor-to-ceiling wallpaper in a rich taupe with a delicate white botanical branch pattern, creating an immersive, jewel-box feel. A white shaker vanity with dark granite countertop grounds the space, while an arched frameless mirror and brushed gold wall sconce add glamour. A tall gold and glass etagere serves as both decorative storage and a sculptural element, styled with woven baskets, greenery, and stacked accessories. Framed landscape watercolor art adds a serene, organic note, and a freestanding brass toilet paper holder elevates a typically overlooked detail.
The second restroom takes an entirely different but equally compelling direction — soft, dusty blue-grey grasscloth-style wallpaper printed with a tone-on-tone chevron leaf stripe wraps every wall, creating a calm, spa-like atmosphere. A weathered wood console provides casual charm beneath a large-scale botanical tulip artwork in sage and cream. The wall-mount sink with exposed plumbing adds an intentional, editorial touch. An arched mirror with a sleek multi-bulb bar sconce in brushed nickel completes the look, while a pair of sculptural brass branch wall sculptures mounted directly to the wallpaper serve as unexpected, memorable art.
Storage Made Beautiful
The internal storage corridor received a full wall of custom floor-to-ceiling white shaker cabinetry with chrome pulls, flanked by open shelving sections for accessible display and storage. Clean, crisp, and highly organized — this space proves that even a purely functional corridor can be architectural and refined.
The Break Room & Kitchenette
The staff break room was updated with white shaker cabinetry, light speckled granite countertops, stainless appliances — including a French door refrigerator, dishwasher, and over-counter microwave — and warm sage green walls that bring a restful, refreshing energy to the space. Dark hardwood luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the room, warming the look considerably. A round walnut dining table with upholstered chairs creates a proper gathering space for the team, and framed landscape oil art in an ornate gold frame adds a touch of collected character to the room.
Reception & Corridor Details
The reception and corridor spaces were treated with deep navy blue paint — bold, sophisticated, and unexpected in a commercial setting. A large abstract landscape painting in warm blues, blush, and gold hangs in a gilded frame against the navy wall, making an immediate statement. A brass and lucite table lamp sits on a floating brass-trimmed shelf alongside a sculptural art object, creating a vignette that communicates creativity and intentionality from the moment clients arrive.
The result is a professional environment that communicates confidence, taste, and care — one that clients will remember long after their visit, and one that staff will genuinely enjoy working in every day.

Eichler Orange is a stunning expression of mid-century modern architecture. The vision in modernizing this historic Eichler home with a 21st-century makeover was to honor the work of Joseph Eichler and restore it to the 1964 icon of California modernism it once was.
The clean aesthetics of this home features glass walls, post and beam, tongue and groove ceilings, and oversize porcelain tile floors throughout. The free-flowing indoor/outdoor floorplan is highlighted with a signature atrium, and all material selections were made to honor the time period. Custom cherry cabinets and warm slab walnut doors grace the interior.
This home had significant structural termite damage with three-quarters of the framing needing replacement. Additionally, the original house did not come close to meeting the current seismic codes. During reconstruction, we upgraded the post and beam structure with seismic hold-downs and concealed fasteners. The house lacked energy efficiency due to its flat roof and did not meet California’s current Title 24 energy-efficient standards. While honoring its era, this fully renovated residence is now updated with today’s energy efficiencies, including all-aluminum dual-glazed windows and doors, new spray foam insulation atop the flat roof, and tankless water heaters.
A new photovoltaic solar system was added. We abandoned the radiant floor heat and installed a new high-efficiency ductless heating and air units to each room. This increased the building’s performance and provided each room with its own thermostat and control. This system also allowed us to eliminate soffits and ductwork and maintain the exposed tongue and groove ceiling throughout the home.
The living space next to the family and dining room was repurposed to relocate the washer and dryer and allowed space to add a third bathroom. The primary bathroom was also reconfigured for a larger layout.
The sleek kitchen design includes frameless Crystal Cabinets, professional-grade Miele appliances, a large stainless steel Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, and a generous Caesarstone countertop workspace.
The outdoor backyard living space captures the natural beauty of Southern California and mid-century modern features, including drought-resistant landscaping with decomposed granite planter areas and all-new concrete hardscape. A new spa was added to the existing pool, along with a new BBQ area and firepit.
Photographer: Public 311 Design
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