The owner of this apartment is a graduate student in the field of literature. She had a large book collection for which I mounted a custom shelving system. The headboard is also custom-made and I stained the wood to match that of the bookshelves for a feeling of unity. This bedroom features a large window (not pictured) that lets in a flood of light, allowing the edgy black paint to feel relaxed instead of oppressive. Board and batten on the lower portion of the wall was also a custom job to make the built-in ledges seem more intentional as opposed to an accidental result of the strange in-law floor plan.

Example of a transitional staircase design in Philadelphia

Italian pendant lighting stands out against the custom graduated slate fireplace, custom old-growth redwood slab dining table with casters, contemporary high back host chairs with stainless steel nailhead trim, custom wool area rug, custom hand-planed walnut buffet with sliding doors and drawers, hand-planed Port Orford cedar beams, earth plaster walls and ceiling. Joel Berman glass sliding doors with stainless steel barn door hardware Photo:: Michael R. Timmer

An old barn door drapped with photos welcomes party goers to the big event.
Foyer - mid-sized eclectic medium tone wood floor foyer idea in Birmingham with gray walls

Builder: Hendel Homes Photo: Landmark Photography 2017 Artisan Home Tour
Cottage backyard concrete and rectangular pool photo in Minneapolis

photography by Andrea Calo
Inspiration for a huge transitional backyard patio container garden remodel in Austin with a gazebo

Inspiration for a transitional living room remodel in Philadelphia

Photography: Garett + Carrie Buell of Studiobuell/ studiobuell.com
Example of a large classic white two-story house exterior design in Nashville with a hip roof and a shingle roof

The rear façade is anchored by porches on either end.
Inspiration for a large timeless beige three-story mixed siding exterior home remodel

Living room - transitional living room idea in Philadelphia

Living room - small transitional open concept dark wood floor living room idea in Philadelphia with no tv

Example of a transitional staircase design in Philadelphia

Staircase - transitional staircase idea in Philadelphia

While this new home had an architecturally striking exterior, the home’s interior fell short in terms of true functionality and overall style. The most critical element in this renovation was the kitchen and dining area, which needed careful attention to bring it to the level that suited the home and the homeowners. As a graduate of Culinary Institute of America, our client wanted a kitchen that “feels like a restaurant, with the warmth of a home kitchen,” where guests can gather over great food, great wine, and truly feel comfortable in the open concept home. Although it follows a typical chef’s galley layout, the unique design solutions and unusual materials set it apart from the typical kitchen design. Polished countertops, laminated and stainless cabinets fronts, and professional appliances are complemented by the introduction of wood, glass, and blackened metal – materials introduced in the overall design of the house. Unique features include a wall clad in walnut for dangling heavy pots and utensils; a floating, sculptural walnut countertop piece housing an herb garden; an open pantry that serves as a coffee bar and wine station; and a hanging chalkboard that hides a water heater closet and features different coffee offerings available to guests. The dining area addition, enclosed by windows, continues to vivify the organic elements and brings in ample natural light, enhancing the darker finishes and creating additional warmth. Photography by Ira Montgomery

Christine Rae, removed drapery, opened windows, removed lots of extra seating, items and opened flow to focal point
Inspiration for a mid-sized eclectic enclosed medium tone wood floor family room remodel in Toronto with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a brick fireplace

Inspiration for a transitional staircase remodel in Philadelphia

much more inviting! looked and felt brighter and lighter with cushions, replacement of chairs and accessories for the shelves. Recommended painting the burgundy walls a deep cream Christine Rae

Bedroom - mid-sized transitional master dark wood floor and brown floor bedroom idea in Philadelphia with white walls

Example of a transitional entryway design in Philadelphia