Search results for "Groups' request" in Home Design Ideas

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income.
DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic.
RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income.
ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them.
URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances.
OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.

Having designed the kitchen in their previous home (see Davis Rockwell Kitchen) - which they loved for many years – this couple came back to us with one main request, to design a similar but more upscale interpretation for their new home.
As with the previous kitchen, the clients wanted an open space for entertaining and dedicated areas to showcase their large collection of art pieces. The existing builder grade kitchen didn’t fit their personal style or wish list.
Knowing that the client’s intention was for this house to be their forever home, it was vital to give them a design that worked well now as well as for future needs. Knowing they love to entertain, we recommended a 5’ Galley Workstation for its flexibility to serve a variety of tasks from everyday wash station to party central with just a quick change of accessories. Located in the heart of the home, the kitchen is visible from all angles and needed to present a clean, flush look with the cabinets and appliances.
Special features include LED strip lighting in the upper niche cabinets to highlight special art pieces. Beautiful walnut panels wrap the cabinetry and serve a dual purpose around the fold-up wall cabinets by the cooktop; they provide just enough depth for custom spice shelves. Mitered edges on counter tops and continuous vertical wood grain drawer fronts are upscale details.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of Photographerlink

 
Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
This Chicago client was tired of living with her outdated and not-so-functional kitchen and came in for an update. The goals were to update the look of the space, enclose the washer/dryer, upgrade the appliances and the cabinets.
The space is located in turn-of-the-century brownstone, so we tried to stay in keeping with that era but provide an updated and functional space.
One of the primary challenges of this project was a chimney that jutted into the space. The old configuration meandered around the chimney creating some strange configurations and odd depths for the countertop.
We finally decided that just flushing out the wall along the chimney instead would create a cleaner look and in the end a better functioning space. It also created the opportunity to access those new pockets of space behind the wall with appliance garages to create a unique and functional feature.
The new galley kitchen has the sink on one side and the range opposite with the refrigerator on the end of the run. This very functional layout also provides large runs of counter space and plenty of storage. The washer/dryer were relocated to the opposite side of the kitchen per the client's request, and hide behind a large custom bi-fold door when not in use.
A wine fridge and microwave are tucked under the counter so that the primary visual is the custom mullioned doors with antique glass and custom marble backsplash design. White cabinetry, Carrera countertops and an apron sink complete the vintage feel of the space, and polished nickel hardware and light fixtures add a little bit of bling.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Photography by: Carlos Vergara
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com
Find the right local pro for your project

 
Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
This client wanted a complete update of their kitchen and came to us with several objectives. They wanted a larger island and easier access to the dining room. They also wanted to eliminate the existing cooktop location from the island and make the island larger. Because the existing space was not able to accommodate all those requests, we decided to eliminate the breakfast area and incorporate that space into the kitchen. By eliminating an existing bay window and making the kitchen sink window larger, we were able to make the new layout work without sacrificing any natural light. A French door to the newly added and adjoining sunroom and casual outdoor dining spot still allows for multiple dining options. And by enlarging the opening to the dining room, it allows for easier access to this space on a daily basis versus for special occasions only.
The client already had a large desk in the kitchen and spends a lot of time at this area. We were able to make the new desk even larger by moving the refrigerator to another area. The refrigerator is covered in decorative panels so that it blends nicely into the furniture look of the room. The larger island can now seat several people comfortably.
The room’s traditional feel was achieved by providing different finishes on the perimeter, island and desk cabinetry. Handmade gray backsplash tile, a combination of soapstone and Carrera marble give the space a classic appeal. Details provide interest – custom glass mullions, decorative wood hood and bronze hardware give the space character and charm.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Interior Design by: Rachel Alcorn
Architect: Rick Rearick
Contractor: KJN Renovations
Photography by: Mike Kaskel
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

BEFORE PHOTO: Having designed the kitchen in their previous home (see Davis Rockwell Kitchen) - which they loved for many years – this couple came back to us with one main request, to design a similar but more upscale interpretation for their new home.
As with the previous kitchen, the clients wanted an open space for entertaining and dedicated areas to showcase their large collection of art pieces. The existing builder grade kitchen didn’t fit their personal style or wish list.
Knowing that the client’s intention was for this house to be their forever home, it was vital to give them a design that worked well now as well as for future needs. Knowing they love to entertain, we recommended a 5’ Galley Workstation for its flexibility to serve a variety of tasks from everyday wash station to party central with just a quick change of accessories. Located in the heart of the home, the kitchen is visible from all angles and needed to present a clean, flush look with the cabinets and appliances.
Special features include LED strip lighting in the upper niche cabinets to highlight special art pieces. Beautiful walnut panels wrap the cabinetry and serve a dual purpose around the fold-up wall cabinets by the cooktop; they provide just enough depth for custom spice shelves. Mitered edges on counter tops and continuous vertical wood grain drawer fronts are upscale details.

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Columbus' Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
A tired primary bathroom, with varying ceiling heights and a beige-on-beige color scheme, was screaming for love. Squaring the room and adding natural materials erased the memory of the lack luster space and converted it to a bright and welcoming spa oasis. The home was a new build in 2005 and it looked like all the builder’s material choices remained. The client was clear on their design direction but were challenged by the differing ceiling heights and were looking to hire a design-build firm that could resolve that issue.
This local Glen Ellyn couple found us on Instagram (@kitchenstudioge, follow us ?). They loved our designs and felt like we fit their style. They requested a full primary bath renovation to include a large shower, soaking tub, double vanity with storage options, and heated floors. The wife also really wanted a separate make-up vanity. The biggest challenge presented to us was to architecturally marry the various ceiling heights and deliver a streamlined design.
The existing layout worked well for the couple, so we kept everything in place, except we enlarged the shower and replaced the built-in tub with a lovely free-standing model. We also added a sitting make-up vanity. We were able to eliminate the awkward ceiling lines by extending all the walls to the highest level. Then, to accommodate the sprinklers and HVAC, lowered the ceiling height over the entrance and shower area which then opens to the 2-story vanity and tub area. Very dramatic!
This high-end home deserved high-end fixtures. The homeowners also quickly realized they loved the look of natural marble and wanted to use as much of it as possible in their new bath. They chose a marble slab from the stone yard for the countertops and back splash, and we found complimentary marble tile for the shower. The homeowners also liked the idea of mixing metals in their new posh bathroom and loved the look of black, gold, and chrome.
Although our clients were very clear on their style, they were having a difficult time pulling it all together and envisioning the final product. As interior designers it is our job to translate and elevate our clients’ ideas into a deliverable design. We presented the homeowners with mood boards and 3D renderings of our modern, clean, white marble design. Since the color scheme was relatively neutral, at the homeowner’s request, we decided to add of interest with the patterns and shapes in the room.
We were first inspired by the shower floor tile with its circular/linear motif. We designed the cabinetry, floor and wall tiles, mirrors, cabinet pulls, and wainscoting to have a square or rectangular shape, and then to create interest we added perfectly placed circles to contrast with the rectangular shapes. The globe shaped chandelier against the square wall trim is a delightful yet subtle juxtaposition.
The clients were overjoyed with our interpretation of their vision and impressed with the level of detail we brought to the project. It’s one thing to know how you want a space to look, but it takes a special set of skills to create the design and see it thorough to implementation. Could hiring The Kitchen Studio be the first step to making your home dreams come to life?

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
A tired primary bathroom, with varying ceiling heights and a beige-on-beige color scheme, was screaming for love. Squaring the room and adding natural materials erased the memory of the lack luster space and converted it to a bright and welcoming spa oasis. The home was a new build in 2005 and it looked like all the builder’s material choices remained. The client was clear on their design direction but were challenged by the differing ceiling heights and were looking to hire a design-build firm that could resolve that issue.
This local Glen Ellyn couple found us on Instagram (@kitchenstudioge, follow us ?). They loved our designs and felt like we fit their style. They requested a full primary bath renovation to include a large shower, soaking tub, double vanity with storage options, and heated floors. The wife also really wanted a separate make-up vanity. The biggest challenge presented to us was to architecturally marry the various ceiling heights and deliver a streamlined design.
The existing layout worked well for the couple, so we kept everything in place, except we enlarged the shower and replaced the built-in tub with a lovely free-standing model. We also added a sitting make-up vanity. We were able to eliminate the awkward ceiling lines by extending all the walls to the highest level. Then, to accommodate the sprinklers and HVAC, lowered the ceiling height over the entrance and shower area which then opens to the 2-story vanity and tub area. Very dramatic!
This high-end home deserved high-end fixtures. The homeowners also quickly realized they loved the look of natural marble and wanted to use as much of it as possible in their new bath. They chose a marble slab from the stone yard for the countertops and back splash, and we found complimentary marble tile for the shower. The homeowners also liked the idea of mixing metals in their new posh bathroom and loved the look of black, gold, and chrome.
Although our clients were very clear on their style, they were having a difficult time pulling it all together and envisioning the final product. As interior designers it is our job to translate and elevate our clients’ ideas into a deliverable design. We presented the homeowners with mood boards and 3D renderings of our modern, clean, white marble design. Since the color scheme was relatively neutral, at the homeowner’s request, we decided to add of interest with the patterns and shapes in the room.
We were first inspired by the shower floor tile with its circular/linear motif. We designed the cabinetry, floor and wall tiles, mirrors, cabinet pulls, and wainscoting to have a square or rectangular shape, and then to create interest we added perfectly placed circles to contrast with the rectangular shapes. The globe shaped chandelier against the square wall trim is a delightful yet subtle juxtaposition.
The clients were overjoyed with our interpretation of their vision and impressed with the level of detail we brought to the project. It’s one thing to know how you want a space to look, but it takes a special set of skills to create the design and see it thorough to implementation. Could hiring The Kitchen Studio be the first step to making your home dreams come to life?

A casual living room which opens to the more casual dining porch in the background. This home was designed to feel like an old estate that had been added onto throughout the years. The dining porch, which is fully enclosed was designed to look like a once open porch area. Eric Roth Photography

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Columbus' Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Having designed the kitchen in their previous home (see Davis Rockwell Kitchen) - which they loved for many years – this couple came back to us with one main request, to design a similar but more upscale interpretation for their new home.
As with the previous kitchen, the clients wanted an open space for entertaining and dedicated areas to showcase their large collection of art pieces. The existing builder grade kitchen didn’t fit their personal style or wish list.
Knowing that the client’s intention was for this house to be their forever home, it was vital to give them a design that worked well now as well as for future needs. Knowing they love to entertain, we recommended a 5’ Galley Workstation for its flexibility to serve a variety of tasks from everyday wash station to party central with just a quick change of accessories. Located in the heart of the home, the kitchen is visible from all angles and needed to present a clean, flush look with the cabinets and appliances.
Special features include LED strip lighting in the upper niche cabinets to highlight special art pieces. Beautiful walnut panels wrap the cabinetry and serve a dual purpose around the fold-up wall cabinets by the cooktop; they provide just enough depth for custom spice shelves. Mitered edges on counter tops and continuous vertical wood grain drawer fronts are upscale details.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of Photographerlink

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

 
Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
This client wanted a complete update of their kitchen and came to us with several objectives. They wanted a larger island and easier access to the dining room. They also wanted to eliminate the existing cooktop location from the island and make the island larger. Because the existing space was not able to accommodate all those requests, we decided to eliminate the breakfast area and incorporate that space into the kitchen. By eliminating an existing bay window and making the kitchen sink window larger, we were able to make the new layout work without sacrificing any natural light. A French door to the newly added and adjoining sunroom and casual outdoor dining spot still allows for multiple dining options. And by enlarging the opening to the dining room, it allows for easier access to this space on a daily basis versus for special occasions only.
The client already had a large desk in the kitchen and spends a lot of time at this area. We were able to make the new desk even larger by moving the refrigerator to another area. The refrigerator is covered in decorative panels so that it blends nicely into the furniture look of the room. The larger island can now seat several people comfortably.
The room’s traditional feel was achieved by providing different finishes on the perimeter, island and desk cabinetry. Handmade gray backsplash tile, a combination of soapstone and Carrera marble give the space a classic appeal. Details provide interest – custom glass mullions, decorative wood hood and bronze hardware give the space character and charm.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Interior Design by: Rachel Alcorn
Architect: Rick Rearick
Contractor: KJN Renovations
Photography by: Mike Kaskel
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Overlooking Semiamhoo Bay, Galadriel is a refined, modern home with the warmth and strength inherently found in West Coast architecture. Textures of natural stone, Douglas fir, glass and steel unify the interior with its geographical setting - surrounded by evergreens and unrestricted views of the ocean. The entrance to the home is accessed by a crossing above a reflecting pool, in which sits a stunning and solitary bonsai which is illuminated from above through an oculus in the roof’s overhang. Expansive outdoor spaces featuring fire features and seating areas are connected by a curved metal staircase set over a blackened steel reflecting pool, adding a graphic element to the rear of the home. Clerestory glazing in an elevated roof area offers an opening into the tree canopy towards the front of the property and allows light to permeate the interior of the home, while full height windows throughout maximize the impressive views. Living spaces throughout provide ample room for entertaining and comfort. Creativity is shown in the many colourful and whimsical accents. The master bedroom features two ensuite baths - a unique request that makes good sense for the owners. Spaces for work, writing and art were given priority reflecting the values and livelihood of our clients. Projecting from a stone clad wall, cantilevered white oak stair treads lead to an extraordinary wine display that incorporates a sculptural component taken as a memento from our client’s work as a producer in the film industry, adding a strong personal dimension.
This home reflects a successful collaboration between Peter Hildebrand and Stefan Walsh of Iredale Group Architecture and KBC Developments.
Photography by Ema Peter | www.emapeter.com

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
A tired primary bathroom, with varying ceiling heights and a beige-on-beige color scheme, was screaming for love. Squaring the room and adding natural materials erased the memory of the lack luster space and converted it to a bright and welcoming spa oasis. The home was a new build in 2005 and it looked like all the builder’s material choices remained. The client was clear on their design direction but were challenged by the differing ceiling heights and were looking to hire a design-build firm that could resolve that issue.
This local Glen Ellyn couple found us on Instagram (@kitchenstudioge, follow us ?). They loved our designs and felt like we fit their style. They requested a full primary bath renovation to include a large shower, soaking tub, double vanity with storage options, and heated floors. The wife also really wanted a separate make-up vanity. The biggest challenge presented to us was to architecturally marry the various ceiling heights and deliver a streamlined design.
The existing layout worked well for the couple, so we kept everything in place, except we enlarged the shower and replaced the built-in tub with a lovely free-standing model. We also added a sitting make-up vanity. We were able to eliminate the awkward ceiling lines by extending all the walls to the highest level. Then, to accommodate the sprinklers and HVAC, lowered the ceiling height over the entrance and shower area which then opens to the 2-story vanity and tub area. Very dramatic!
This high-end home deserved high-end fixtures. The homeowners also quickly realized they loved the look of natural marble and wanted to use as much of it as possible in their new bath. They chose a marble slab from the stone yard for the countertops and back splash, and we found complimentary marble tile for the shower. The homeowners also liked the idea of mixing metals in their new posh bathroom and loved the look of black, gold, and chrome.
Although our clients were very clear on their style, they were having a difficult time pulling it all together and envisioning the final product. As interior designers it is our job to translate and elevate our clients’ ideas into a deliverable design. We presented the homeowners with mood boards and 3D renderings of our modern, clean, white marble design. Since the color scheme was relatively neutral, at the homeowner’s request, we decided to add of interest with the patterns and shapes in the room.
We were first inspired by the shower floor tile with its circular/linear motif. We designed the cabinetry, floor and wall tiles, mirrors, cabinet pulls, and wainscoting to have a square or rectangular shape, and then to create interest we added perfectly placed circles to contrast with the rectangular shapes. The globe shaped chandelier against the square wall trim is a delightful yet subtle juxtaposition.
The clients were overjoyed with our interpretation of their vision and impressed with the level of detail we brought to the project. It’s one thing to know how you want a space to look, but it takes a special set of skills to create the design and see it thorough to implementation. Could hiring The Kitchen Studio be the first step to making your home dreams come to life?
29